Frequency of Retromolar Canal in Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Rural Population of Western Maharashtra.

Abstract

Background:The retromolar canal (RMC), which branches off from the primary mandibular canal, contains neurovascular bundles that include arteries, small veins, and myelinated nerve fibers. Identifying the presence and location of RMC is crucial for dental surgeons prior to mandibular surgical procedures. This study aims to identify the prevalence, structure, and location of the retromolar canal in adults using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods:CBCT scans from 200 patients were analyzed to assess age and gender distribution. Instances where a retromolar canal was detected in the CBCT images were then classified according to their path and shape.

Result:In the present study, we found that Retromolar canals appeared in 25% of CBCT images. Type A1 was the most common (12%), while other types like A2, B1, B2, and C had lower frequencies. The distribution of RMC types showed no significant differences between genders (P > 0.05). Unilateral occurrences were more frequent than bilateral cases. The mean incidence of Type A1 was the highest (4.04), and variability was noted across types. Overall, RMC presence was not significantly influenced by gender or side.

Discussion: These findings underscore the importance of recognizing the Retromolar canal as a common anatomical variant, present in 25% of cases within the rural population of Western Maharashtra.

Conclusion:This study highlights the necessity for clinicians to be aware of this variation to avoid potential complications during surgical interventions in the mandible.