[The anatomical course of the mandibular canal--a computer assisted trigonometric radiographic interpretation]

The mandibular canal was demonstrated on two stereoscopic radiographs which correspond radiographically to isolated films of the mandible. The central ray forms 20 degrees and a 50 degrees angle with the camperian plane on the radiograph. A reference pointer attached to the teeth is also reproduced on the film. The angle and direction of the central ray is computed on the basis of the diagram of the reference pointer. A defined adjustment therefore is unnecessary when the radiograph is being taken. The coordinates of the mandibular canal and the surrounding root tips are accurately computed with a programmable computer.