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Conventional cross-sectional tomographic evaluation of mandibular third molars
1Central Department of Radiology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Tübingen, Osianderstrasse 2-8, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany. gabriele.kaeppler@med.uni-tuebingen.de
Quintessence International (Berlin, Germany : 1985)
|February 24, 2001
Summary
This study used cross-sectional tomography to map the mandibular canal
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- The mandibular canal's proximity to impacted mandibular third molars poses surgical risks.
- Accurate anatomical localization is crucial for safe third molar extraction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the precise location of the mandibular canal relative to impacted mandibular third molars.
- To evaluate the utility of conventional axially corrected cross-sectional tomography for this purpose.
Main Methods:
- 347 impacted mandibular third molars in 234 patients were imaged using conventional axially corrected cross-sectional tomography.
- Images were analyzed to identify the course of the mandibular canal in relation to the third molar.
- Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.
Main Results:
- The mandibular canal most frequently coursed laterally (53.6%) to the impacted third molar.
- Other courses included between the roots (26.8%), lingually (13.0%), and inferiorly (6.0%).
- Supplementary canals were identified in 6.3% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Conventional axially corrected cross-sectional tomography provides valuable information regarding the mandibular canal's relationship with impacted third molars.
- This imaging modality can enhance surgical safety by identifying potential risks like nerve proximity or canal variations.