Diagnostic Accuracy Of Cone Beam Computed Tomography In Visualizing Mandibular Retromolar Canal: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: The retromolar canal normally arises from the mandibular canal behind the third molar, and travels antero-superiorly to the retromolar foramen (RMF), which is located within or around the retromolar triangle. RMF permits the passage of vascular-nerve bundles that contribute to nutrition and innervation of the pulp and periodontium of mandibular molar teeth. The aim of the present study was to assess the presence of retromolar canal along with diameter and course using CBCT as it offers advantages in terms of better visualization of the structural images of the anatomical variation with high contrast. Materials and methods: The present study was conducted in 100 individuals within the age group of 18 to 50 yrs with erupted or impacted mandibular third molar was included in the study for the presence of RMC using CBCT. Axial, sagittal, and cross-sectional images were reconstructed for all hemi-mandibles. The retromolar canals were classified into 9 categories. Results: The present study comprised of CBCT images of 100 subjects in which 43% were males while 57% were females, ranging from 18-50 years with a mean of 23.5±7.6. Of 100 CBCT images, retromolar canal was found in 18 subjects (18%) whereas a total of 25 RMCs (11 left, 14 right) were detected. Both male (50%) and female (50%) have equal prevalence of RMC and the age group 21-30 years (38.9%) tended to have more RMC than the other age group. Conclusion: Age, gender and location had no significant association with the course and diameter of RMC. The knowledge of this anatomical variation is important for surgeons to prevent damage to the nerves arising from retromolar canal.