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. 2024 Feb;23(1):7-13.
doi: 10.1007/s12663-022-01792-5. Epub 2022 Sep 23.

Anatomical Analysis of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Relation to Mandibular Posterior Teeth Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Radiographic Analysis Study

Affiliations

Anatomical Analysis of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Relation to Mandibular Posterior Teeth Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Radiographic Analysis Study

Yasser Nabil El Hadidi et al. J Maxillofac Oral Surg. 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Introduction: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is reliable in the assessment of structures related to teeth. The assessment of the inferior alveolar neurovascular (IAN) bundle location using CBCT is considered one of its prime uses in different mandibular surgeries.

Methodology: Retrospective CBCT data of patients presented to the institute were assessed to measure relations of IAN. Measurements were taken to assess the bone thickness adjacent to IAN, the superior-inferior dimension between the canal and the teeth, and the dimension between the canal and the inferior border of the mandible.

Results: Out of the 170 patients the root apices nearest to the IAN were that of the second molars (1.76 ± 1.86 mm). The IAN was closest to the inferior border of the mandible at the roots of the second molars (8 ± 3.4 mm). The buccal bone thickness had its greater dimension buccal to the IAN at the area of the second molar (5.16 ± 1.26 mm).

Conclusion: Two mini-plates in trauma do not increase the risk of injury. It is advisable in apicectomy not to extend 1.5 mm apically. The thickness of the nerve-lateralization window should not exceed 2 mm. In body osteotomy procedure, perform surgery anterior to premolars as much as possible.

Keywords: Apicectomy; Body ostectomy; Cone bean computed tomography; IAN injury; Inferior alveolar nerve lateralization; Mandibular body fracture.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interestThe authors whose names are listed immediately below certify that they have NO affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest (such as honoraria; educational grants; participation in speakers’ bureaus; membership, employment, consultancies, stock ownership, or other equity interest; and expert testimony or patent-licensing arrangements), or non-financial interest (such as personal or professional relationships, affiliations, knowledge or beliefs) in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Adjusted coronal cut showing the distances with the inferior alveolar canal in a first molar root
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Adjusted coronal cut showing the distances with the inferior alveolar canal in the second molar root
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Schematic diagram for non-locking screw penetration of the bone of the mandible
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Schematic diagram for locking screw penetration in the bone of the mandible
Fig. 5
Fig. 5
Schematic diagram for the relation of apicectomy access cavity to the inferior alveolar nerve
Fig. 6
Fig. 6
Schematic diagram for access to the inferior alveolar nerve during body ostectomy and inferior alveolar nerve lateralization

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