Measuring Anterior Loop Length Of The Inferior Alveolar Nerve-An Institutional CBCT Study In Telugu Population

Abstract

Background: The anterior loop (AL) of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) is the section of the nerve that exists anterior to the mental foramen before entering the canal. The presence of AL is essential for implant placement in the interforaminal region of the mandible. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can evaluate the position and specific location of these anatomical differences.

Material and methods: The current research comprised 48 individuals (24 female and 24 male) CBCT pictures of patient records from October 2022 to March 2023 in the department of implant dentistry. In CBCT, the whole mandible was evaluated from axial, coronal, and panoramic perspectives (CARE STREAM). Patients who participated in the research ranged in age from 20 to 40 years. T-test was performed to evaluate statistical differences between the left and right sides and between the genders.

Results: The mean age of the participants is 48.214.91 years. There were no significant differences between boys and females on the right (p=0.595) and left (p=0.973) sides with regard to the mean ALL. Likewise, both men (p=0.9) and females (p=0.166) exhibited no variations in the mean ALL between the right and left sides.

Conclusion: Prior to surgery or implant implantation, it is necessary to use the CBCT method and prepare appropriately to minimize nerve damage.