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Medial sigmoid depression: a panoramic pseudoforamen in the upper ramus
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|June 1, 1983
Summary
A common radiolucency near the sigmoid notch on panoramic radiographs was identified. This finding corresponds to a normal osseous depression, not a significant anatomical structure.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
Background:
- Panoramic radiography frequently reveals a radiolucency in the upper mandibular ramus.
- This radiolucency is located below and anterior to the sigmoid notch.
- Its anatomical basis and significance are not widely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the nature and origin of a specific foramen-like radiolucency observed on panoramic radiographs.
- To determine the incidence of this radiolucency in a large patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 88 human skulls with mandibles.
- Photographic and radiographic replication of the observed radiolucency.
- Analysis of 1,986 panoramic radiographs to determine incidence.
Main Results:
- The radiolucency was found to correspond to an observable osseous depression on the medial aspect of the ramus.
- This depression is located just below the sigmoid notch area.
- The study determined the incidence of this radiographic finding.
Conclusions:
- The foramen-like radiolucency is a common finding on panoramic radiographs.
- It represents a normal anatomical variation (osseous depression) rather than a significant pathological or anatomical landmark.
- Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of this finding to avoid misinterpretation.
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