Morphometric analysis of mandibular notch in dry human mandibles- A surgeon's guide to the masseteric nerve block

Abstract

Background: The mandibular notch allows passage of masseteric vessels and nerve to the deep aspect of the masseteric muscle. The existing data gives a fairer idea in locating the masseteric nerve but does not consider much of the various shapes and sizes of the masseteric notch into account. Hence the present study analyses the various size and shapes and depths of the mandibular notch to achieve a more accurate method for masseteric nerve block. Thus, this investigation intends to examine the morphology and morphometry of mandibular notch in the mandibles of the South Indian people. Methods: The morphometric parameters of the mandibular notch were examined in 102 dry mandibles of the peoples of South Indian. The morphometric parameters were estimated by a digital vernier caliper and data was analyzed statistically. Results: The results of this study showed a round-shaped mandibular notch to be the most frequent type on the right side (43.1%) whereas it was 25.5% on the left side. The length and depth from gonion to notch showed a substantial variance between right and left bone (p=0.41), (p= 0.43) respectively, but with respect to width of the notch no significant difference was observed. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that population specific and side-specific variations may be present in the mandibular notch measurements. Knowledge on variations in incisura mandibularis is of significance in maxillofacial surgeries and reconstructive operations. Keywords: Mandibular notch, masseteric vessels, masseteric nerve block, morphometry