Assessment of the pterygoid hamulus dimensions and morphology in Iranian women using cone-beam computed tomography

Understanding the characteristics of the pterygoid hamulus (PH) is crucial for diagnosing and treating various oropharyngeal and craniofacial conditions. It also aids in interpreting radiographs and diagnosing unexplained oropharyngeal pains. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a valuable tool, offering clinical insights into this previously understudied area. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the morphology and dimensions of the PH and its changes by ageing in 20-40-year-old women in the Dental Branch of Islamic Azad University of Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on CBCT scans from 258 women aged 20-40. The morphology, length, width, and angle of the PH in coronal and sagittal planes were investigated.

The average length of the right and left hamulus was 5.50±1.37 and 5.37±1.36 mm. The average width of the right and left hamulus was 2.16±0.72 and 2.11±1.06 mm. The average coronal angle of the right and left hamulus was 22.3±9.79° and 30.16±8.99°. The average sagittal angle of the right and left hamulus was 26.11±7.26° and 26.34±7.63°. In contrast with the sagittal angle, the right and left hamulus's length, width, and coronal angles were not symmetrical. Slender morphology was the most frequent morphology, and it was symmetrical only in the 20-30-year-old age group. Finally, no variable was affected by ageing.

Hamulus dimensions and morphology did not change with ageing in women aged 20-40. The PH symmetry varied by age group. Also, CBCT was a suitable tool for investigating hamulus changes.