Evaluation of the pterygoid hamulus morphology using cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• The pterygoid hamulus (PH) is an important anatomical landmark in the oral and maxillofacial region.
• Understanding PH morphology is crucial for interpreting radiographic images and diagnosing conditions like untraceable oral and pharyngeal pain.

Observation:

• A retrospective analysis of 396 pterygoid hamulus (PH) sides from 198 patients was conducted using 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• Measurements included width, length, angle, and distance to the posterior nasal spine, along with sagittal and coronal plane inclinations.
• Statistical analysis using Pearson chi-squared and Student t-tests was performed.

Findings:

• Mean PH width and length showed no significant differences between left and right sides.
• All PHs exhibited lateral inclination in the coronal plane and a posterior inclination in the sagittal plane (approximately 78%).
• No statistically significant differences were observed in PH measurements based on patient age or localization.

Implications:

• Detailed knowledge of pterygoid hamulus (PH) anatomy aids in accurate radiographic interpretation.
• Awareness of PH morphology and potential variations is essential for oral and maxillofacial radiologists in differential diagnosis.
• Radiographic assessment should thoroughly evaluate PH morphology to prevent potential issues arising from its structure or elongation.