Assessment of the greater palatine foramen position in an Indian population: A cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract

Background: During minor dental surgical procedures, the greater palatine nerve block is commonly utilized to achieve anesthesia. The greater palatine nerve and arteries are transmitted through the greater palatine foramen (GPF). Furthermore, this region serves as a soft-tissue donor site. The goal of this research was to interpret the location of the GPF and its diameter in an Indian population by utilizing cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: The position of GPF relative to the maxillary molars was estimated by utilizing 120 CBCT scans. Furthermore, the GPF's diameter and distance between the mid-palatine suture and the alveolar ridge were also determined. Results: Of the 120 GPFs examined, 102 were found to be in the third molar region. The GPF's distance from the mid-palatine suture and alveolar ridge was 14.01 ± 1.12 mm and 6.74 ± 1.95 mm, respectively. The mean anteroposterior diameter was 3.43 ± 0.3 mm. On considering the age group ≤45 years, the GPF's average distance from the mid-palatine suture (14.35 ± 1.10 mm) and alveolar ridge (7.87 ± 2.09 mm) was significantly higher than >45 years (P = 0.0329 and P < 0.0001, respectively). All the measurements were significantly higher in males. Conclusion: The location of GPF is variable but more closely related to the third molar. Sound knowledge of the GPF anatomy is crucial for an effective nerve block and also for preventing complications.