Study of the Accessory Mandibular Foramina in Dry Adult Human Mandibles and their Clinical and Surgical Implications

Abstract

Introduction: Accessory Mandibular Foramina (AMF) are most commonly located around the mandibular foramen in the ramus of the mandible. They may transmit the branches of the inferior alveolar nerve and vessels, which may lead to the failure to achieve the inferior alveolar nerve block during various dental procedures. Aim: To evaluate the incidence, the site/location and the number of the AMF in the dry adult human mandibles. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. A total of 140 dry adult human mandibles were studied in Parul Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Parul University, Vadodara for the presence of the AMF with respect to their incidence, number, site/location around the mandibular foramen from December 2018 to July 2020. The findings were recorded, tabulated,analysed and stated using descriptive statistics. Results: The AMF were present in 44 (31.42%), out of 140 dry human mandibles. In 26 (18.57%) mandibles, they were present bilaterally and in 18 (12.85%) mandibles they were present unilaterally; eight (5.71%) on the right side while 10 (7.14%) on the left side. In 62 (77.5%) left and right sides of the mandibles, they were present above the mandibular foramen while in 18 (22.5%) left and right sides, they were present below the mandibular foramen. A single AMF was present in 66 (82.5%) left and right sides of the mandibles. Two foramina were present in the 12 (15%) left and right sides of the mandible. Triple foramina were observed in the two (2.5%) sides of the mandibles. Conclusion: Knowledge of the presence of the AMF can help to prevent the neurovascular complications during various procedures involving mandibular ramus.