A Three-Dimensional Morphometric Analysis of the Infraorbitale Foramen

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Medical Imaging
• Anthropology

Background:

• The infraorbital foramen (IOF) is a critical anatomical landmark in the midface.
• It transmits the infraorbital nerve, crucial for facial sensation.
• Accurate morphometric data is essential for surgical planning and understanding facial variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a comprehensive 3-dimensional morphometric analysis of the IOF.
• To investigate gender-based differences in IOF dimensions, distances, and shapes.
• To provide reference values for clinical applications in midface surgery.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans from 92 individuals (50 female, 42 male).
• Processed CBCT data using 3D Slicer software to generate three-dimensional models.
• Measured vertical and transverse diameters, distances to facial landmarks (inferior orbital margin, anterior nasal spine, nasion), and IOF shape.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant gender differences were found in IOF transverse and vertical diameters on the left side (P<0.05).
• Significant differences were observed in distances from the IOF to the anterior nasal spine and nasion on both sides (P<0.05).
• The semilunar shape was most common on the right (41.3%), while oval and semilunar shapes were prevalent on the left.

Conclusions:

• The 3D morphometric analysis revealed significant gender-related variations in IOF dimensions and shape, particularly on the left side.
• Measured distances to facial landmarks also showed significant differences between genders.
• These 3D reference values are valuable for clinicians performing surgical and invasive procedures in the midface region.