Anatomic evaluation of the incisive canal with cone beam computed tomography and its relevance to surgical procedures in the mental region: a retrospective study in a Brazilian population

To evaluate the prevalence, location, length, diameter, and distances related to the incisive canal (IC) and the need for cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as a complementary exam prior to surgery in the mental region. One hundred CBCT images from patients of both genders aged 27 to 73 years were evaluated. At every 3 mm, the diameter (DIAM) of the right and left ICs and their location, their distance to base of the jaw (BIC), the buccal (BAIC) and lingual (LAIC) aspects, and their length were measured. The 100 patients comprised 50 men (50%) and 50 women (50%). The IC was detected in 78 patients, more frequently in women (80%) than in men (76%). Measurements were taken in millimeters. The mean measurements for the two sides and for men and women combined were as follows: BIC = 10.0, BAIC = 4.0, LAIC = 6.2, ICL = 19.9, and DIAM = 1.4. The measurements show the need for care from professionals when performing intraosseous surgical procedures in the mental region. The distances between the IC and the references studied must be observed. Thus, CBCT becomes essential for surgical planning in the mental region. The mental region of the mandible is considered a safe area to perform surgical procedures such as the placement of osseointegrated implants, orthognathic surgery, and the removal of bone grafts. However, this region includes important neurovascular structures that must be considered or else hemorrhage and neurologic disorders can be experienced.