Morphological study of variations in shape of coronoid process of adult human mandible

Background: Many researchers have studied the morphology of coronoid process and have found varying shapes but such a study is lacking in this area. Aims: The present study was conducted to identify different morphological variations in shape of coronoid process of adult human mandible. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of Anatomy at a Medical College of Bihar upon 46 dry adult human mandibles i.e. 92 coronoid processes. The morphological forms of coronoid process were noted. Results: 57.6% of coronoid processes were triangular in shape, 28.3% were rounded and 14.1% were hook shaped. The difference between male and female mandibles was found to be statistically significant (p=0.004). The proper knowledge on the morphological shapes of coronoid process is useful for maxillofacial surgeons as well as to be used as an anthropological marker to assess different populations and races. Keywords : Coronoid process, Cross-sectional study, Mandible.