Evaluation of the Accessory Canals of Canalis Sinuosus Via Cone Beam CT

Abstract

Objective: Canalis sinuosus (CS) is a common anatomical variation in the anterior maxilla that originates from the infraorbital canal and carries the anterior superior alveolar nerve and vessels. This study aimed to examine the presence, frequency, and features of CS and its accessory canals (ACs) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.
 Methods: A total of 495 CBCT images were retrospectively analyzed in axial, sagittal, and coronal sections. Patient age and sex, presence or absence of CS, location as right, left, or bilateral if CS was present, and number of ACs were recorded. In addition, the end regions of the ACs were recorded as central incisor, central-lateral incisor, lateral incisor, lateral incisor-canine, and canine regions. All recorded data were statistically analyzed.
 Results: At least one CS was found in 54 (10.9%) of 495 CBCT images. CS(s) were bilateral in 26 (48.2%) cases and unilateral in 28 (51.8%; 25 on the left and 3 on the right side). The ACs of the CS predominantly terminated in the lateral incisor region (p =.025). The frequency of CS was not statistically different between males and females (p =.313).
 Conclusion: Accessory canals in the anterior maxilla are mostly associated with branches of the CS. In the current study, the prevalence of CS was 10.9%, and most of the CSs were opening in the lateral incisor region. Detection of accessory canals in the anterior maxilla and examination of this region with CBCT will prevent misdiagnoses and postoperative complications arising from damage to these structures.