Alveolar antral artery in edentulous patients and their visualization through cone beam computed tomography

Abstract

Objective of the study: The aim of this study was to assess the anatomical features of the alveolar antral artery (AAA) in edentulous patients using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Patients: The sample consisted of 191 CBCT scans of maxillary sinuses (n=382) of male (n=59) and female (n=132) edentulous patients (age: 38-89 years).

Material and methods: The images were analyzed in Dolphin™ 11.9 software. Visualization, location, and diameter of the AAA was registered.

Results: AAA was present in 88.5% of the assessed maxillary sinuses. Bilateral visualization was predominant 77% (P<0.0001). The mean vertical distance from the most anterior part of the AAA to the sinus floor was 7.9±6mm in female patients (both sides) and 12±7.22mm on the right side and 10.9±6.86mm on the left side in males. The mean diameter of the AAA was 1.2±0.7mm on both sides in females. In males, the diameter was significantly (P<0.05) larger: 1.5±0.62mm on the right side and 1.4±0.69 on the left side in females.

Conclusion: The AAA had a higher visualization rate, better visualization, and larger diameter when it was present bilaterally in male and female patients.

Keywords: Alveolar antral artery; Anatomy; Computed tomography; Edentulous; Maxillary sinus; Morphology; Radiology.