Radiographic Evaluation of the Presence of Anatomic Accessory Canals in the Jaws by Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Abstract

Background: Accessory canals in the jaws are important anatomic variations that can complicate surgical procedures. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is an important diagnostic tool to identify the accessory canals with great accuracy.

Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of accessory canals in the CBCT of the jaws and to analyse their frequency, location, length, diameter and its distance from alveolar crest on the basis of age and gender.

Methods: This retrospective study analysed 170 full volume CBCT scans of both male and female patients with age ranging from 7 years and above. Accessory canals were identified, traced and measured in curved slicing using CS 3D software. Data were analysed using SPSS 30.0 version and p- value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.      

Results: Accessory canals were observed in 35.3% of subjects, with a higher prevalence in the mandible (75%) compared to the maxilla (55%). Anatomic variations of the accessory canals had shown that 70% subjects had single canal, while 30% were with multiple canals. The mean length of canals was 5.62±1.96 mm, with diameters ranging from 0.7–1.5 mm, and mean distance from alveolar crest between 5.3–14.85 mm. No significant association was found between presence of canals and age group (p>0.05) or gender (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Accessory canals are relatively common findings detectable with CBCT, predominantly located in the anterior regions of the jaws. Although their prevalence did not vary significantly with age or gender, their recognition is clinically important for prevention of surgical and implant-related complications.