Mandibular Foramen Research Articles

Morphological assessment of mandible: Way to effective anaesthesia

The biggest bone in the human skull, the mandible shapes the inferior third of the face and forms the lower jawline. The inferior alveolar nerve and vessels enter the mandibular canal through the mandibular foramen, which punctures the internal surface of the ramus. It is located at the level of the occlusal surfaces of the lower teeth, midway between the anterior and posterior borders of the ramus, and ends at the mental foramen. Most people have a single mandibular canal, while there are some variations in shape (oval, round, or pear-shaped) and whether an accessory canal can be distinguished (canal bifurcation). Failure of inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) anesthesia can be attributed to these anatomical variables as well as operator technique. The anesthetic solution is administered as near to the mandibular foramen as feasible by adhering to the landmarks. Repeated injections of the local anesthetic solution in children due to IANB failure can be a tiresome task since they may cause the kid to behave negatively and there is a chance that the solution will be administered in excess of the safe suggested dosage. Data regarding the shifting position of the mandibular foramen from childhood to puberty is lacking in the literature. In light of this, this research was carried out to evaluate, using radiographic techniques, how the mandibular foramen's locations change as a kid grows and develops from childhood to adolescent.

Morphometrics of human skulls and mandibles obtained from Southwestern Nigeria: implications in clinical manoeuvres

BackgroundCraniometric data can be useful in the estimation of sex, age, stature, and ethnicity. Despite Nigeria’s diverse and multifaceted demography, there is a dearth of information on detailed morphometry of specific features of the Nigerian cranium. This study sought to provide detailed descriptions of various dimensions on the Nigerian mandibular bone, nose, foramen magnum, and orbit for use in clinico-anatomical studies, dentistry, anthropology, and forensic medicine. Using 33 skulls and 17 mandibles, without gender bias, obtained from the departmental museum, 17 parameters were measured linearly on each mandible and thirty-six parameters on each skull using a digital Vernier calliper. Mean and standard deviation of data sets generated were analysed using t-test at p < 0.05.ResultsThe distance between the cranial and caudal angles of the mandible was 3.48 ± 0.21 mm. The distance from the rostral point of the dental bone to the condylar, coronoid, and angular processes was 4.86 ± 0.25 mm, 2.64 ± 0.52 mm, and 3.72 ± 0.30 mm, respectively. The distance between the most medial points of the most rostral left & right mental foramina in the skulls was 4.51 ± 0.17 mm. The distance between the most medial points of the most rostral left & right mental foramina in the skulls was 4.51 ± 0.17 mm. Most orbit skull types were megaseme in nearly 61%, and orbital asymmetry was also observed. However, the right orbit (26.07 ± 2.106) was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than left orbit (24.80 ± 1.850). The most common shape of the foramen magnum was the oval-like foramen (78%). The common nose types were platyrrhine in 50% and mesorrhine in 26%.ConclusionInsights from this study might provide practical reference information for mandibular and orbital reconstructive surgeries in clinical settings, skull classification in forensic science, and research purposes.

Functional Units Analysis of Mandibular Morphology in Patients With Parry-Romberg Syndrome.

To characterize mandibular morphology in patients with Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS). Retrospective study. A craniofacial center. Thirty-three patients with PRS affecting mandible. Preoperative computed tomography data were analyzed using Mimics 26.0 (Materialise Inc.). Distances between landmarks-condyle process (Con), coronoid process (Cor), mandibular foramen (IAF), gonion (Go), and mental foramen-were measured to represent the sizes of skeletal units. Positional asymmetry was reflected by angles between lines connecting bilateral landmarks and the occlusal plane. Bilateral differences in unit sizes were compared. Absolute difference (Δ) > 5 mm and relative size (RS) < 80% were set to evaluate the severity of hypoplasia. Angular measurements were compared to 0° using one-sample t tests. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between onset ages and both RS and angular measurements. The affected side's skeletal units were smaller. Severe hypoplasia was more common in the angular unit. Angles between Con-Con', Cor-Cor', IAF-IAF', and the occlusal plane were less than 0°, whereas the angle with Go-Go' was greater than 0°. Age of onset was positively correlated with the condylar unit size and the Con-Con' to occlusal plane angle. Patients with PRS affecting mandible exhibit smaller skeletal units on the affected side, particularly in the angular unit. Most landmarks on affected side tend to cluster toward the occlusal plane. Earlier onset of PRS correlates with more pronounced condylar asymmetry. Evaluating the severity of functional units involvement and implementing appropriate treatment should be considered.

Morphometric Study on the Mandibular Foramen.

Aims and objectives This study aimed to analyze the mandibular foramen (MF) by identifying its average vertical and horizontal diameters, determining its localization, and assessing the prevalence of accessory mandibular foramina. Methodology The study was conducted at the Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, India over one month in August 2024. A total of 77 human dry mandibles were examined, excluding those that were damaged to the extent that measurements could not be taken. The dimensions of the MF were measured in two directions: superoinferior and anteroposterior. Localization measurements were taken from the MF to key anatomical landmarks, including the coronoid notch, the inferior border of the ramus, the pterygomandibular raphe (third molar tooth), and the posterior border of the ramus. Measurements were recorded using digital vernier calipers and documented in Google Sheets (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA). The study also recorded the presence or absence of accessory MF. Results The superoinferior diameter of the MF was found to be 4.20 ± 0.94 mm (right (R)) and 4.28 ± 1.21 mm (left (L)). The anteroposterior diameter was found to be 3.55 ± 0.90 mm (R) and 3.60 ± 0.80 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the coronoid notch was found to be 17.60 ± 2.95 mm (R) and 17.93 ± 3.16 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the inferior border was found to be 24.61 ± 4.32 mm (R) and 24.20 ± 4.28 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the pterygomandibular raphe was found to be 20.93 ± 1.98 mm (R) and 20.63 ± 2.00 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the posterior border was found to be 11.31 ± 1.67 mm (R) and 11.70 ± 2.28 mm (L). This present study identified 20 instances of an accessory MF, with 10 occurring on each side. Additionally, 10 mandibles displayed accessory mandibular foramina on both sides. Conclusions The comprehensive analysis of the MF and its anatomical landmarks in this study offers valuable insights that enhance our understanding of mandibular anatomy, with direct implications for clinical practice. The identification of the pterygomandibular raphe as a measurable landmark from within the buccal cavity introduces a practical guide for dental practitioners and maxillofacial surgeons, potentially improving the accuracy of surgical and anesthetic procedures. Furthermore, the detailed measurements of MF width provide a foundation for refining anesthetic techniques, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. The observed prevalence of accessory MF underscores the importance of considering anatomical variability in clinical practice, highlighting the need for continuous anatomical research to advance clinical methodologies and ultimately improve patient care and surgical success.

Efficacy of the Coronoid Notch and Occlusal Plane As Predictable Landmarks for Determining the Medial Cut Height in Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy: A Split-Mouth Observational Study.

This split-mouth observational study was conducted to assess the reliability and safety of using the coronoid notch and occlusal plane as landmarks to aid surgeons during bilateral sagittal split osteotomy(BSSO). Thirteen patients between the ages of 18 and 30 years, with class II and class III mandibular skeletal malocclusion requiring BSSO, were randomly selected and assigned to each of the study and control groups. A split-mouth study was chosen to conduct this research. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging was conducted before the surgery to evaluate the anatomical structure, and three predefined points were marked at the superiormost point of the mandibular foramen, the inferiormost point of the mandibular foramen, and the deepest point of the sigmoid notch. A conventional sagittal split osteotomy was carried out in the control group. Preoperative values were obtained in the study group using the CBCT imaging technique by drawing an imaginary line from the inferiormost part of the mandibular foramen to the line corresponding to the occlusal plane that extended beyond the last molar. The lingual flap reflection was restricted to the internal oblique ridge. The posterior border of the mandible was not reflected. The measurements acquired via CBCT imaging were accurately transferred to the intraoperative surgical site using a vernier caliper. This facilitated the precise completion of the horizontal osteotomy, ascending ramus cuts, and vertical osteotomies. BSSO was performed, the mandibular setback or advancement was done with intermaxillary fixation, and the procedure was completed by rigid fixation. Types of lingual splits, types of lateral bone cut ends (LBCEs), any unfavorable split, and the time taken for the surgery (in minutes) were assessed. The surgery time in the control group (20.1538 ± 2.85325 min) was found to be higher than that in the study group (17.6154 ± 3.59487 min), with a p-value of 0.02. No significant differences were observed when assessing the presence of unfavorable splits in both groups (p = 0.500). Buccal LBCEs were the most prevalent, followed by inferior types. Type I lingual split was the most common in the study group (70%). This technique offers a dependable anatomical reference and significantly reduces surgical time for beginners. Additionally, the patterns of the lingual split were correlated with the types of lateral bone cut ends.

Accuracy of Mandibular Foramen Localization Using Digital Orthopantomogram (OPG) in Middle Eastern Population.

Locating the mandibular foramen (MF) through imaging is clinically important for inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) anesthesia and mandibular ramus osteotomies. Although cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is superior in imaging the mandible, an orthopantomogram (OPG) is preferred for its ease of use and availability. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of digital OPG in localizing the MF, in a subset of the Middle Eastern population. Radiographic images (OPG and CBCT) of selected patients (adults, dentulous and no mandibular abnormalities) were used to locate the MF through digital measurements (mm) of the anteroposterior distance from the anterior border of the ramus (MF-AP) and the superoinferior position from the mandibular occlusal plane (MF-SI). Measurements were statistically compared between OPG and CBCT for accuracy. Differences in measurements between OPG and CBCT were compared against the anatomic location (right/left), age and biological sex, assuming a p-value < 0.05 as significant. A total of 204 radiographic records (males: 100/females: 104/mean age: 34.65 ± 11.55 years) were evaluated. The measurements for the MF were MF-AP-OPG (right: 13.53 ± 2.44/left: 13.19 ± 2.25), MF-AP-CBCT (right: 13.61 ± 2.39/left: 13.36 ± 2.19), MF-SI-OPG (right: 5.25 ± 1.71/left: 5.41 ± 1.65) and MF-SI-CBCT (right: 5.59 ± 1.66/left: 5.52 ± 1.61). Measurements between OPG and CBCT were not significantly different, except for MF-SI (right) (p = 0.042). While the overall difference between OPG and CBCT (MF-AP/MF-SI) measurements showed a significant association (p < 0.01) with the anatomic location (right/left), a significant association (p < 0.05) with biological sex was observed only for MF-AP. Based on this study's outcomes, digital OPG is an accurate modality to locate the MF based on anteroposterior (MF-AP) and superoinferior (MF-SI) measurements. This would be clinically beneficial for dental and oral surgeons to achieve the optimum IAN block anesthesia based on preoperative panoramic radiographs. Similarly, it would assist maxillofacial surgeons in planning mandibular orthognathic surgeries and ramus osteotomies without complications.

Anatomical variations of the human mandible and prevalence of duplicated mental and mandibular foramina in the collection of the State University of Londrina

BackgroundThe knowledge of the morphology of the human mandible is essential for diverse dental procedures. The potential anatomical variations of the bone, including the presence of accessory foramina, may culminate in significant clinical outcomes and implications, directly impacting dental surgery and anesthesia. Aim of studyThis study aimed to evaluate the general morphology of human mandibles in the collection of the State University of Londrina, South Brazil, and to determine the presence of anatomical variations. Materials and methodsA total of 63 mandibles were measured bilaterally with a pachymeter for various dimensions, and a proportional calculation of each parameter was obtained, based on the size of the length of each mandibular base. In addition to the general descriptive morphology of the mandibles, considering that six mandibles presented duplicated foramina, they were divided into two groups, and the mandibles with no anatomical variation (normal group, N = 57) were compared to those with duplicated foramina (N = 6). Data were checked for normal distribution and then tested statistically. ResultsSix out of 63 mandibles (9.52 %) presented duplicated foramina, either mental or mandibular. Significant differences between the normal group and the duplicated foramina group were found in the lengths between mandibular angle and condylar process on both sides (right: 65.14 mm vs. 74.91 mm, p = 0.001; left: 65.04 mm vs. 72.34 mm, p = 0.019); between mandibular angle and coronoid process on the right side (59.55 mm vs. 67.67 mm, p = 0.007); and in the diameter of the left mandibular foramen (3.71 mm vs. 4.64 mm, p = 0.04), with the duplicated foramina group presenting a higher average for all parameters. ConclusionThese findings provide a morphological pattern for the Department of Anatomy of the State University of Londrina collection and highlight the presence of anatomical variations of the human mandible, specifically regarding duplicated foramina. The presence of accessory mental and mandibular foramina is clinically significant for dental procedures, potentially impacting the anesthesia. Understanding these variations is crucial for dental surgeons to prevent complications. Future research should further explore the functional implications and clinical significance of these variations.

Unveiling an uncommon anatomical variation: a case report on mandibular coronoid foramen

Unveiling an uncommon anatomical variation: a case report on mandibular coronoid foramen

Examination of Mandibular Lingual Foramen Variations with Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Pilot Study

Examination of Mandibular Lingual Foramen Variations with Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Pilot Study

Evaluation of mandibular trabecular bone by fractal analysis in pediatric patients with hypodontia of the mandibular second premolar tooth

BackgroundIt is still unclear whether the trabecular structure of the jaw is different in individuals with hypodontia than in those without hypodontia; this is important for clinicians. The aim was to determine whether the mandibular trabecular bone structure of children and adolescents with hypodontia differs from the control group by using the fractal analysis (FA) method in this study.MethodsA total of 138 panoramic radiographs of 69 cases and 69 control subjects (mean age 13.2 ± 10.1) were evaluated. The age and gender of subjects in the case and control groups were matched. Three regions of interest (ROIs) were selected from the panoramic radiographs. ROI1 refers to the center of the ramus rising above the mandibular foramen. ROI2 refers to the area between the apical level of the mandibular molar and the upper border of the mandibular canal. ROI3, the missing tooth region, refers to the apical third of the mesial side of the erupting or fully erupted permanent mandibular first molar. Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon tests were used. p < 0.05 was accepted for the significance value.ResultsThe mean fractal dimension (FD) values of ROI1, ROI2, and ROI3 were 1,25, 1,20, and 1,13, respectively. The means FD values obtained from the ramus region were higher than the other regions (p < 0.05). The FD values did not differ significantly according to gender and age (p > 0.05). The FD values of the case group were lower than the control group for ROI3 (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe results of this study showed that the mandibular trabecular bone quality of pediatric patients with one missing tooth was different from the healthy group. The difference in the mean FD values from the ROIs indicates that the ramus has a denser structure than the mandibular corpus. Clinicians should factor this into their dental treatment planning process.

Positions of the Mandibular Foramen and Canal in Different Skeletal Classes and Implications for Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy.

To evaluate the positions of the mandibular foramen (MF) and mandibular canal (MC) between different skeletal classes to highlight the implications for bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). A cross-sectional study was performed using cone-beam computed tomography on 90 patients classified into classes I, II and III. Linear measurements were performed on multiplanar reconstructions as follows: from the MF to the edge of the mandibular ramus (1), to the mandibular notch (2), to the ramus width (3) and to the occlusal plane (4); and from the MC to the alveolar crest (A), to the lower border of the mandible (B) and to the mandibular buccal cortical bone (C). Mandibular thickness (D), width (E) and height (F) of the MC were measured. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) checked the reliability. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test were used to compare measurements and classes. Linear measurements 2 presented a statistically significant difference between classes I and II. There was no statistically significant difference between the classes and measurements B, C, D, E and F. Linear measurements A were shorter in class III than in class II. Although most measurements suggest that the BSSO technique does not need to be modified for each skeletal class, measurements from the MF to the mandibular notch in class II and from the MC to the alveolar crest on distal of the second molars in class III could help surgeons to recognize critical regions.

Determination of Location of Mandibular Foramen of Sri Lankans with Reference to Nearer Anatomic Landmarks by using Dry Mandibles

Objective: The mandibular foramen serves as a reference point in the inferior alveolar nerve block and is at risk in some maxillofacial surgeries. Therefore, it is crucial to localize the position of the mandibular foramen. Worldwide many studies have been conducted regarding this but in Sri Lanka, there aren’t any recorded studies. The objective of this study was to determine the location of the mandibular foramen with reference to nearer anatomical landmarks of the Sri Lankans according to gender.Methods: A total of 20 dry mandibles collected from the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Wayamba University Sri Lanka were included in this study. The distances from the mandibular foramen to 8 bony landmarks were measured using the digital vernier caliper. The data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0 Version. The mean distances were calculated and compared according to gender using the independent samples t-test. The differences in mean measurements between the right and left sides of the mandibles were compared according to gender using the paired samples t-test.Results: There was a significant difference between male and female mandibles in mean distances from the posterior border of the mandibular ramus on the left side, and from the angle of the mandible bilaterally. There was no statistically significant difference between any of the measurements of the right and left sides of the male mandibles, but there was a statistically significant difference in some of the measurements between the right and left sides of the female mandibles. Out of the 40 mandibular foramina observed, there was only one accessory mandibular foramen.Conclusions: According to the study it was proven that there’s a difference in the location of mandibular foramen according to gender. The location of the mandibular foramen in the Sri Lankan population was different from the documented locations of the mandibular foramen of various populations around the globe.

EVALUATION OF THE RELATIVE POSITION OF THE MANDIBULAR FORAMEN IN YEMENI CHILDREN AS A REFERENCE FOR INFERIOR ALVEOLAR NERVE BLOCK USING AN ORTHOPANTAMOGRAPH

Aim and objectives: A crucial component of managing a kid dentistry patient's behavior is pain control. For mandibular teeth, the most used local anesthetic method is inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). So, an effective IANB anesthetic requires knowledge of the mandibular foramen's location. Using digital panoramic radiography pictures, the mandibular foramen's position in relation to the occlusal plane and the deepest point of the anterior border of the ramus was assessed in a sample of Yemeni children aged 4 to 12. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study consisted of 501 orthodontic charts that were analyzed and divided into three groups: Group 1: 4-6 years, Group 2: 7-9 years and Group 3: 10-12 years. The OPGS were traced directly on radiographic films and measurements were taken from the mandibular foramen to the occlusal level and to the deepest point of the anterior border of the ramus, respectively, on the right and left sides of the mandible. Data were analyzed and the mean and SD were determined and compared for different gender, age groups and side (right/left). Results: Male participants showed slightly higher mean distance values for MF-AB-Right compared to females (16.276±2.03 mm VS 15.952±1.82), but the contrast was not statistically significant. The study found significant differences in the mean MF distances of ABR between the 10-12 year age group and the 4-6 year age group (16.518±1.86 mm VS 15.487±1.95 mm), (p=0.0001). The mean OP-MF distances for the 10-12 year age group were also significant, with significant differences observed in the right side and left side. Conclusion: The results were similar for the total children, regardless of gender. The study suggests that the mandibular foramina position may vary among different age groups. For inferior alveolar nerve block, the needle should be inserted slightly below the OP in 4-6 years old girls and at the same level of OP in 7-9 years old girls, and 4-6 years old boys. Peer Review History: Received 23 March 2024; Revised 6 May 2024; Accepted 29 June; Available online 15 July 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Dr. Masoumeh Divar, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran, zhaledivar@gmail.com

Topography landmarks of the infraorbital, mandibular and mentual foramens of Saimiri collinsi (Osgood, 1916) for anesthetic access and blocks.

Due to events related to the urbanization process, specimens of Saimiri collinsi are often referred to veterinarians specializing in the treatment of wild animals. With these professionals and the oral health of this species in mind, we evaluated the skull and the exact location of the infraorbital, mentual and mandibular foramens, with the aim of supporting the anesthetic block for dental procedures in Saimiri collinsi. The infraorbital foramen was located in the maxillary bone and was arranged with one on each side, except in one individual, with a pair in each antimer. The mentual foramen was located in the diastema between the canine tooth and the lateral incisor. The mandibular foramen was located medially on the ramus of the mandible, close to the mandibular incisure. The distances between the foramina and the main reference points, were greater in females than in males (p < 0.05). For access purposes, in the foramens investigated we suggest using a Gingival Needle 30G 21mm Short, positioned externally at 15º to the maxillary bone to access the infraorbital foramen. Externally, perpendicular to the chin, in the diastema between the lower lateral incisor tooth and the canine tooth, to approach the mentual foramen, and ventral to the edge of the mandibular body, at a 90º angle, to access the mandibular foramen.

Injury to Anatomic Structures Due to Fixation Device in Management of Mandibular Fracture.

ORIF is the gold standard for the management of mandibular fractures. The chances of postoperative complications are due to infection, damage of the inferior alveolar nerve canal, or tooth root during the fixation of the fracture fragments. Fixation hardware placed in the vicinity of the vital structures may encroach on the anatomic structures, leading to postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate the injury to the anatomic structures in the proximity of the fracture line due to the fixation device. This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital from July 2021 to June 2023. The cases of maxillofacial trauma reported and referred from peripheral centers were considered duly, applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients having mandibular fractures from one mandibular foramen to another with or without associated other facial fractures were treated by ORIF under general anesthesia. The patient was followed up at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The cases of postoperative complications were further investigated by CBCT. There were 67 patients (56 males and 11 females) with 86 fracture lines in the age group of 18-55 years with an average age of 35.2 years. Postoperatively 7 patients presented with unilateral paresthesia of the lower lip and chin region. CBCT revealed that the mean distance of the screw from the inferior alveolar nerve canal was 3.02mm. None of these cases had injury to the nerve canal or roots of teeth. All the patients recovered from paresthesia within 6 months. Complications like injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) with sensory disturbances to the lower lip and chin, as well as tooth/tooth root fractures, may occur due to mandibular fracture, surgical manipulation, and fixation devices. The anatomic structures in the vicinity of the fracture line can be damaged during the fixation of the fracture fragments by the bone plates and screws. In the present study, it was found that 7 out of 67 patients presented with unilateral paresthesia of the lower lip and chin. CBCT analysis showed a considerable distance of 3.02mm from the inferior alveolar nerve canal to the screws. There was no evidence of hardware encroachment on the IAN or tooth roots. Selection and placement of appropriate fixation devices, particularly the length of the bone screws, are crucial to avoid injury to the anatomic structures.

Assessment of lingula and foramen mandibulae morphology and their implications for inferior alveolar nerve block: a comparative study of contemporary and medieval individuals.

In this study, we conducted a detailed morphological analysis of the lingula and foramen mandibulae, aiming to examine their anatomical characteristics and relationships within contemporary and medieval individuals. Our primary objective was to provide valuable insights to assist clinicians in minimizing potential intraoperative complications during anesthesia procedures targeting the inferior alveolar nerve. To accomplish this, we examined the mandibular structures of 22 adults, 11 children aged 6-12 from archaeological findings in the Târgu Mureș area, and 14 contemporary adults. Our observations encompassed the size, shape, and spatial relationships of the lingula and foramen mandibulae concerning various points along the ascending branch of the mandible. The study revealed a distinct order of lingula shapes among medieval children and adults, with the triangle, trapezoid, nodular, and assimilated shapes being most prevalent. In modern adults, the order of nodular and assimilated shapes was reversed. Additionally, oval foramina were more common in adults, while round foramina predominated in children. Notably, there was no statistically significant difference between children and adults in the distance from the most prominent point of the lingula to the anterior edge of the ascending branch. Our findings imply that the depth at which the inferior alveolar nerve can be accessed remains relatively consistent between children and adults. Furthermore, we identified a correlation between the relationship of the shape of the lingula and the position of the mandibular foramen, providing valuable insights for clinical practice. Keywords: lingula, foramen mandibulae, morphology, inferior alveolar nerve block

Unusually Pronounced and Expansive Mandibular Foramen. A Incidental Radiological Finding

Unusually Pronounced and Expansive Mandibular Foramen. A Incidental Radiological Finding

Location of mandibular foramen in dry mandibles in relation to various anatomical landmarks

To localize the mandibular foramen in dry mandibles of adult and old age groups of South Indian origin by estimating its average distance from different anatomical landmarks and to provide a specific and precise site for inferior alveolar nerve block. : A total of 51 mandibles were taken for the study and the distance between the mandibular foramen and the various anatomical landmarks were measured using a digital vernier caliper. Presence of accessory mandibular foramen was observed and recorded. Difference between the sides and the correlation between the gonial angle and various distances were carried out.:Distance of mandibular foramen from anterior border was 16.41±2.44 mm and 16.85±2.55 mm, from posterior border was 10.28±2.08 mm and 10.13±2.02 mm, from mandibular incisure 22.5±3.13mm and 21.9±3.08mm, from mandibular base 23.72±3.37 mm and 24.5±3.27 mm, from third molar 15.27±11.99 mm and 16.85±11.60 mm, from apex of retro molar trigone 18.28±3.02 mm and 19.79±3.18 mm on right and left side respectively. There was no significant difference between the measurements of right and left sides. The measurements had a negative association with gonial angle. Accessory foramina were found to be present in 21and 23 mandibles on right and left side respectively.:Precise localization of mandibular foramen is clinically very important to achieve effective inferior alveolar nerve block prior to dental surgeries in the lower jaw. The present study establishes the presence of bilateral symmetry in the position of mandibular foramen with respect to various anatomical landmarks and the utility of gonial angle in localizing the mandibular foramen.

Measurement plane of the cross-sectional area of the masseter muscle in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion: An artificial intelligence model

This study aimed to determine a measurement plane that could represent the maximum cross-sectional area (MCSA) of masseter muscle using an artificial intelligence model for patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion. The study included 197 patients, divided into subgroups according to sex, mandibular symmetry, and mandibular plane angle. The volume, MCSA, and the cross-sectional area (CSA) at different levels were calculated automatically. The vertical distance between MCSA and mandibular foramen, along with the ratio of the masseter CSA at different levels to the MCSA (R), were also calculated. The MCSA and volume showed a strong correlation in the total sample and each subgroup (P<0.001). The correlation between the CSA at each level and MCSA was statistically significant (P<0.001). The peak of the r and the correlation coefficient between the CSA at different levels and MCSA were mostly present 5-10 mm above the mandibular foramen for the total sample and the subgroups. The mean of RA5 to RA10 was>0.93, whereas the corresponding correlation coefficient was>0.96, both for the entire sample and for the subgroups. MCSA could be used as an indicator for masseter muscle size. For patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion, the CSA 5-10 mm above the mandibular foramen, parallel to the Frankfort plane, could be used to estimate the masseter muscle MCSA.

Cone Beam CT Assessment of Mandibular Foramen and Mental Foramen Positions as Essential Anatomical Landmarks: A Retrospective Study in Vietnam.

The mandibular foramen (MnF) and the mental foramen (MF) are essential anatomical landmarks that should be considered before any surgical procedures in the mandible. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of the MnF and MF in relation to adjacent anatomical structures, as well as age and gender differences, using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) projections. The study was conducted from August 2023 to January 2024 at the Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Vietnam. In this retrospective study, 50 CBCT images of Vietnamese patients were randomly taken for various clinical purposes. Furthermore, relevant data, such as gender and age groups, were selected to evaluate the correlations, along with specific inclusion criteria. Patients within the age range of 18-69 with a symmetrical mandible were included. The distance of the MnF-MN was 29.6±5.0 mm (right) and 30.1±4.6 mm (left) in males and 25.0±4.2 mm (right) and 26.3±5.0 mm (left) in females. The distance of the MnF-posterior border of the ramus (P) was 16.2±3.6 mm (right) and 15.0±2.3 mm (left) in males. For females, it was 17.1±2.9 mm (right) and 13.8±1.7 mm (left). The distance of the MF-body mandible (MB) was 15.4±2.4 mm (right) and 15.6±2.0 mm (left) in males and 14.0±2.1 mm (right) and 14.3±1.6 mm (left) in females. The distance of the MF-mandibular midline (MM) was 27.0±2.6 mm (right) and 27.0±2.9 mm (left) in males and 25.3±2.0 mm (right) and 25.1±2.2 mm (left) in females. These distances showed statistically significant differences depending on gender (P<0.05). It can be said that CBCT provides comprehensive information about the MnF and the MF for dentists in research and clinical practice.