Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026
05:49
Author Spotlight: Advancing CBCT and Digital Dental Image Integration with AI-Assisted Digitization
Published on: February 23, 2024
1.6K
Exploring mandibular canal variations using CBCT: A study on clinical relevance and risk assessment
Rahul Srivastava1, Hadi Raza2, Devina Pradhan3
1Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Rama Dental College Hospital & Research Centre, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Bioinformation
|March 30, 2026
Summary
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) reliably identifies anatomical variations in the mandibular canal, such as bifid canals and anterior loops. These variations, found in 29% of patients, are crucial for preventing surgical complications.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Anatomical variations of the mandibular canal pose risks during oral surgery.
- Conventional radiography often misses these variations.
- Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers superior visualization of mandibular canal anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of mandibular canal anatomical variations using CBCT.
- To assess the diagnostic accuracy of CBCT in identifying these variations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 200 CBCT scans.
- Patients aged 18-70 years.
- Assessment of bifid, trifid, retromolar canals, anterior loops, and accessory branches in axial, sagittal, and coronal planes.
Main Results:
- Anatomical variations were detected in 29% of the analyzed CBCT scans.
- Bifid canals were the most common variation (18%), followed by anterior loops (11%).
- CBCT demonstrated reliable identification of clinically significant variations.
Conclusions:
- CBCT is a valuable tool for detecting mandibular canal anatomical variations.
- Awareness of these variations is essential for safe and effective oral surgical procedures.
- The prevalence data can inform surgical planning and risk assessment.
