Three-dimensional evaluation of the alveolar antral artery with the aid of cone-beam computed tomography

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, location, and morphometric characteristics of the alveolar antral artery in an Iranian population using cone-beam computed tomography.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on cone-beam computed tomography images of 322 patients acquired at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences between January 2015 and December 2022. The alveolar antral artery canal presence, mediolateral position (intrasinus, intraosseous, superficial), mediolateral coarse, and morphometry (distances to sinus floor and alveolar crest at the premolar and molar site, and diameter) were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences based on age, gender, dental status, and side (p < 0.05).

The overall prevalence of the alveolar antral artery was 92.2%, most commonly in an intrasinus position (51.3%). The most frequent course was the "in" type (32.4%). Median distances to the sinus floor ranged from 5.09 mm (first premolar) to 7.30 mm (second molar), while distances to the alveolar crest from 16.70 mm (second molar) to 24.65 mm (first premolar). Significant variations in alveolar antral artery canal dimensions and distances were observed based on tooth location, gender, age, and dental status.

This study demonstrates a high prevalence and significant anatomical variability of the alveolar antral artery canal in the Iranian population, and underscores the importance of preoperative cone-beam computed tomography imaging to minimize the risk of iatrogenic injury during posterior maxillary surgeries.