Accessory mandibular foramina: histological and immunohistochemical studies of their contents

Although accessory foramina of a human mandible are consistent findings their contents still causes confusions. The study was undertaken to determine the contents of accessory foramina on the medial aspect of mandibular symphysis. Dissection of 21 human cadaveric heads revealed the presence of neurovascular bundle in accessory foramina. Macroscopically it was observed that the bundle was formed by branches of mylohyoid nerve, sublingual artery and accompanying veins. Histological observations proved that the contents of accessory foramina were formed by an artery accompanied by a nerve. Immunohistological investigations using neuron-specific-enolase (NSE) and S-100 protein showed positive reactions in nerve axons and confirmed the presence of the nerve in accessory foramina. In conclusion, the possible role and clinical importance of accessory foramina on the internal surface of mandibular body was discussed.