Cone Beam CT to Map Mandibular Foramen Variations for Improving Dental and Surgical Accuracy

Background: The mandibular foramen (MF) is a key anatomical feature of the mandible, critical for dental and surgical procedures due to its role in housing the inferior alveolar nerve, artery, and vein. Accurate localization of the MF is challenging, often necessitating the use of anatomical landmarks during procedures to prevent complications, such as nerve damage. Methods: This study analyzed the position of the MF using panoramic images reconstructed from cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The sample included 56 dentate patients, comprising 22 males and 34 females aged 20-55 years. Linear measurements from the MF to various anatomical landmarks were taken, and statistical analysis was conducted using the T-test and ANOVA to assess the impact of gender, age, and side of the mandible on MF positioning. Results: The study found no significant gender differences in the distances from the MF to the mandibular notch (N-MF), the anterior border of the ramus (A-MF), and the inferior border of the mandible (I-MF). However, significant gender differences were observed in the distance from the MF to the posterior border of the ramus (P-MF). Age also significantly affected the P-MF distance, while side comparisons showed no significant differences in MF positioning between the right and left mandibles. Conclusion: The findings indicate that while most MF measurements are consistent across genders and ages, the P-MF distance varies significantly, necessitating personalized approaches in dental and surgical procedures to ensure precision and minimize complications. These insights into MF positioning enhance the effectiveness of clinical practices involving the mandibular foramen.