A false presence of bifid mandibular canals in panoramic radiographs

作者：Kim M S^*; Yoon S J; Park H W; Kang J H; Yang S Y; Moon Y H; Jung N R; Yoo H I; Oh W M; Kim S H^*

来源：Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, 2011, 40(7): 434-438.

DOI：10.1259/dmfr/87414410

• bifid canals
• panorama
• micro-CT
• cone beam computed tomography
• inferior alveolar nerve

Objectives: This study was performed in order to verify bifid mandibular canals revealed from panoramic radiographic results.
Methods: 1000 panoramic radiographs from dental patients and the panorama, cone beam CT (CBCT) and micro-CT from 40 dry mandibles were examined for bifid mandibular canals. The results were confirmed by a stereoscopic and histological examination of the cross-sectioned mandibles.
Results: The prevalence of bifid canals detected from the panoramic radiographs was 0.038. The panoramic radiographs from one dry mandible showed two separate radiolucent mandibular canal-like structures delineated by radio-opaque lines. However, a stereoscopic and histological examination of a cross-section of the mandible showed that only one canal was a true canal containing neurovascular bundles: the other was false, reflecting merely a bony trabecular pattern.
Conclusions: The presence of bifid mandibular canals determined by panoramic radiography should be judged with great caution in relation to dental surgery. Dentomaxillofacial Radiology (2011) 40, 434-438. doi: 10.1259/dmfr/87414410

• 出版日期2011-10