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Mucosal Coverage of Palatine Spines: CT Morphometric Analysis and Clinical Relevance
Layth R Alkhani1, Yusef Qazi2, Tarik F Massoud3
1Engineering, Stanford University, Palo Alto, USA.
Cureus
|September 12, 2025
Summary
Detailed morphometrics of palatine spines (PSs) and their mucosal coverage were analyzed. Findings reveal variations in mucosal length and correlations with sex, age, and spine size, aiding surgical planning in the posterior hard palate.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Oral Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Palatine spines (PSs) define palatal grooves (PGs) containing neurovascular structures.
- Limited detailed morphometric data exists for the mucosa covering PSs and PGs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide detailed morphometric analysis of palatine spines and their overlying mucosa.
- To establish normative data for clinical applications in the posterior hard palate.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective CT imaging study of 69 patients.
- Statistical analysis of morphometric variables, demographics, and spine characteristics (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- Mucosal coverage lengths ranged from 3.5 ± 0.9 mm to 3.7 ± 1.1 mm.
- Significant sex difference in right middle spine size (larger in males).
- Spine size correlated with mucosal coverage; mucosal coverage correlated with patient age.
Conclusions:
- Detailed morphometrics of palatine spines and mucosa are established.
- Data is valuable for planning posterior hard palate procedures.
- Aids in anesthetic infiltration and avoidance of neurovascular damage during surgery.
