Evaluation of Mandibular Foramen Variations Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Egyptian Population

Abstract

Aim: The present study designed to determine variations in mandibular foramen using CBCT in Egyptian population. Subjects and Method: 300 CBCT images were grouped according to sex, and symmetry between right and left sides into two groups.  Group I: males& female and group II: right & left sides. Panoramic images were reconstructed from CBCT scans and evaluated using Blue sky software. The exact location of mandibular foramen at the two sides of the mandible was determined in relation to anterior border & posterior border of ramus, mandibular base, and mandibular notch. The recorded data will be collected, tabulated and statistically analyzed by SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Results: This study showed bilateral asymmetry between right and left sides, no significant difference between 2 sides of the mandible. There was high significant difference in the distance from MF to mandibular base between males and females. No significant difference in other parameters relative to vertical and horizontal dimensions of mandibular ramus.  Conclusions: All parameters related to the position of mandibular foramen in vertical and horizontal dimensions of mandibular ramus (MF-MB), (MF-MN), (PB-MF), and (AB-MF) were symmetrical in the right and left sides. The distance from mandibular foramen to mandibular base (MF-MB) was greater in males than females.