Cone-beam computed tomographic analysis of the morphological characterization of the nasopalatine canal in a pediatric population

Abstract

Purpose: Knowledge of the nasopalatine canal (NPC) is necessary for understanding the morphology and pathogenesis of lesions that occur in this region. The purpose of the present study was to analyze the dimensions and anatomic characteristics of the NPC in a pediatric population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Study design: Reformatted sagittal, coronal, and axial slices of 368 individual CBCT images were analyzed with regard to dimensions and anatomic features of the NPC.

Results: Funnel shape of the NPC was most commonly found [26.9 % (99)], followed by banana shape [19.6 % (72)]. There was no statistically significant difference (p = 0.317) between girls and boys in terms of NPC shape. The mean width of incisive foramen was found to be 2.53 mm with a significant difference (0.002). The mean NPC length was found to be 10.83 mm and the mean canal length was found to be significantly longer in boys than girls (p < 0.000).

Conclusion: The present study provides new information on the literature concerning the identification of the anatomical structure of NPC. This finding may assist clinicians in understanding the morphology and preventing possible complications in this region.