Localización radiográfica del canal mandibular en una población mexicana, periodo 2019-2021

Abstract

Introduction: The mandibular canal is an anatomical detail that must be found to perform certain procedures in buccomaxillofacial surgery. Orthopantomography is a common diagnostic tool used in dental practice. Research of this type has been conducted in different countries on the mandibular canal and its relationship with other mandibular anatomical landmarks; however, there are no reports of Mexican populations. Objective: To determine the location of the mandibular canal in a Mexican population through orthopantomography. Materials and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 270 orthopantomograms obtained from a private radiological center in Nuevo León, Mexico, from 2019-2021. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the statistical package SPSS v.15. Results: Statistically significant differences were obtained in the measurements between the right side and the left side, gender, in some age groups. Conclusion: There are significant differences in the distances between the mandibular basal and vertical distance, including the molars regarding the mandibular canal, between individuals of both genders and with emphasis on the third and sixth decades of life. The importance of correct diagnosis through orthopantomograms allows the clinician to avoid injuring noble mandibular structures.