Assessment of Mandibular Incisive Nerve Canal in Cone Beam Computed Tomography: Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The mandibular incisive canal (MIC), an extension of the inferior alveolar nerve, plays a critical role in anterior mandibular anatomy. Its presence and dimensions are essential considerations for surgical procedures such as implant placement, as improper assessment can lead to nerve damage and postoperative complications. Conventional imaging often fails to identify the MIC accurately, necessitating the use of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) for precise evaluation.

Aim & Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, dimensions, and positioning of the mandibular incisive canal using CBCT and to analyze its relationship with anatomical landmarks such as the mental foramen, cortical bone, and alveolar process. The main objective of this study is to measure the distance between the canal and neighbouring anatomical landmarks like mental foramen, cortical bone and alveolar process to avoid the complication, to survey those with and without incisive nerve canal in mandible and to measure the various dimensions of the mandibular incisive nerve canal.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 330 Indian-origin patients aged 30–50 years. CBCT images were analyzed for MIC presence, dimensions, and proximity to anatomical landmarks. Data were recorded in Microsoft Excel, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 23. Descriptive statistics and paired t-tests were used to analyze the data, with a p-value of <0.05 indicating statistical significance.

Results: The MIC was present in 82.2% of the participants (63% unilateral, 19.2% bilateral), while 17.8% lacked the canal. The average canal length for unilateral cases was 8.15 ± 2.46 mm, with a diameter of 2.02 ± 1.13 mm at the origin and 1.37 ± 1.20 mm at the apex. Bilateral canals showed significant differences in length between the right (7.61 ± 2.57 mm) and left (8.94 ± 2.28 mm) sides (p = 0.003). Distances from the canal to buccal and lingual cortices varied across samples.

Conclusions: The study highlights the anatomical variability of the MIC and underscores the importance of CBCT imaging for preoperative planning. Accurate identification of the canal’s dimensions and positioning can help prevent surgical complications and improve outcomes for anterior mandibular procedures.