Influence of gender and age on nasopalatine canal: A cone-beam computed tomography study

Background and Aim: The incisive canal (or nasopalatine duct) is located palatal to the maxillary central incisors and connects the palate to the floor of the nasal cavity. A branch of the greater palatine artery, the nasopalatine artery, and the nasopalatine nerve passes through this canal. A proper three-dimensional image of the incisive canal and foramen before any surgical intervention in the anterior maxilla is highly important since it can help determine the morphology and position of the canal in relation to the surrounding structures. The aim of this article is to analyze the influence of gender and age on the morphology and length of nasopalatine canal (NPC) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Study Design: This retrospective study analyzed 100 CBCT scans of patients between 15 and 75 years enrolled at a CBCT center in Bhopal, India. The images were acquired using Sirona's Orthophos SL. Two oral and maxillofacial radiologists examined all images to analyze the morphology and length of NPC with respect to gender and age. Results: Morphologically, there were four different shapes of NPC in sagittal CBCT section, and most common was cylindrical both in males and females. Least common shape seen was spindle shape in both genders. The NPC length decreased with increase in age. The length of the canal was found to be longer in men. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of morphology of NPC during surgical procedures such as implant planning.