Multiple unilateral accessory mandibular foramina-a case report

Accessory foramina in the mandible are known to transmit branches of nerves supplying the roots of the teeth. The mandibular foramen is present on the inner surface of the ramus of the mandible which transmits the inferior alveolar nerve. An adult human mandible of unknown sex was found to have multiple mandibular foramina on the medial surface of right ramus. A large accessory mandibular foramen was present anterosuperior to the main mandibular foramen. The dimensions were 6 mm antero posteriorly and 11mm vertically. The dimensions of the mandibular foramen were 9 mm antero posteriorly and 12mm vertically. The distance between two foramina was 20 mm and between the accessory mandibular foramen and apex of lingula was 7 mm. The distance between the posterior border of the accessory mandibular foramen and posterior border of ramus were 15 mm. The accessory mandibular foramen led into a canal which was directed obliquely and joined the mandibular canal at the level of third molar tooth. Two more small mandibular foramina were present one just below the accessory mandibular foramen discussed above and second near the main mandibular foramen. Both of them were of too small size to measure. The accessory mandibular foramen is a rare variation and awareness of its incidence and its position is necessary. The structures passing through it can be compromised during surgical procedures of this area.