Assessment of the canalis sinuosus and its branches in Taiwanese individuals using cone beam computed tomography

The popularity of dental implant surgeries, particularly in the maxillary anterior region, is growing, and understanding variations in relevant anatomical structures such as the canalis sinuosus (CS) and its accessory canals (ACs) is critical to avoid complications, including nerve injury and tissue necrosis. This study determined the prevalence, diameter, location, and anatomical variations of the CS and AC in a Taiwanese population by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

CBCT data were collected from 240 participants (aged 20-80 years, with an equal sex distribution) at China Medical University Hospital. Medical imaging software was used to analyze the number, diameter, and spatial relationships of the CS and ACs relative to adjacent teeth. Two diameter thresholds (≥ 0.5 and ≥ 1 mm) were applied. The participants were divided into three age groups for comparison, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

The results revealed that the prevalence of ACs was 80.4% and 51.7% when the threshold was ≥ 0.5 and ≥ 1 mm, respectively. At both thresholds, men a had significantly higher prevalence of ACs and larger average diameters than did women. Although younger adults had a greater number of ACs, the largest average diameters were observed in the older group, suggesting an age-related increase in canal size. The most common AC location was between the lateral incisor and canine. No significant differences were observed between the left and right sides.

This study revealed distinct age- and sex-related differences in the CS and ACs in the Taiwanese population. CBCT is a valuable tool for accurately identifying these anatomical structures that can improve implant planning and reduce the risk of surgical complications.