Branching pattern of mental nerves in south Indian population: A cadaveric dissection study

Abstract

Introduction: Knowledge of branching pattern of mental nerve (MN) at mental foramen (MF) along with prevalence of accessory mental foramen (AMF) exhibiting accessory mental nerve (AMN) is an obligatory consideration in orthodontics like osteotomy reconstructive procedures, placement of implants, nerve blocks. It has been reported to show population differences regarding these in various osteological studies. However no cadaveric study is reported in South Indian population so far. Aim: To analyze the branching pattern of MN at its emergence, to determine the location of MF in relation to mandibular teeth and to study the frequency of occurrence of AMF with the structures emerging through it in South Indian population. Materials and Methods: 30 cadavers were dissected bilaterally, exposing the mental foramen. Terminal branches of MN at the foramen were carefully dissected and their distribution was noted. The position of MFs and AMFs were noted in relation to mandibular teeth. The AMN (if present) was carefully dissected and noted. The mean distance between accessory mental foramen and mental foramen was also measured. Results: A single MN was noted in all the cadaveric specimens (n= 60). The MN most commonly branched into two branches in 51.66% of cases. The location of MF was found to be inferior to the second premolar on either side in 66% cases. The AMF with AMN passing through it was found only in 3.3% of cases. Conclusion: The commonest pattern of MN observed was MN dividing into 2 branches at the MF. Though high prevalence of AMF noted, not all AMF exhibited AMN. Keywords: Mental foramen, Accessory mental foramen, Orthodontics, Mental nerve, Accessory mental nerve, Nerve block.