The Investigation of Mandibular Canal Variations in the Turkish Society Comparative with Cone Beam Computerized Tomography and Orthopantomography Methods

Mandibular canal and its neurovascular contents are highly important structures for dental clinicals. Accurate localization of the mandibular canal and determination of its variations are crucial aspects to achieve successful surgical results without complications. Inferior alveolar nerve, artery, and vein could be damaged during surgical interventions and serious complications may occur in post-operative period, such as permanent paraesthesia. Thus, the patients’ health and social life may be seriously affected. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and features of mandibular canal variations in a group Turkish population using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and orthopantomography (OPG) techniques. This retrospective study was performed on CBCT and OPG images of 700 patients whose mandibular canal area was clearly observed and aged over 20 years old which were referred to our clinic between 2011-2016. Patients with congenital or acquired deformity affecting the mandible were excluded from the study. In order to make comparative analysis, various measurements were made on both types of imaging. In our study, mandibular canal variation rates were identified as 2.43% (17/700) and 8.57% (60/700) on OPG images and CBCT images, respectively. As a result of our study, it could be said that the mandibular canal variations are not rare cases for the Turkish population. Before risky surgical procedures and when there is a suspicious diagnosis due to inadequacy of OPG imaging method; the CBCT imaging method should be referred in order to prevent complications such as hemorrhage, paresthesia, and traumatic neuroma.