Evaluating Variability in Median Lingual Canal Morphology of the Anterior Mandible Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in the Melmaruvathur Population: A Retrospective Study

Objectives The dimensions, shape, and number of lingual canals are critical for presurgical assessment of dental implants. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to assess the frequency, distribution, position, and morphometric variations of the median lingual canal (MLC) in the Melmaruvathur population of South India. Materials and methods We conducted this study on a sample size of 200 patients of the Melmaruvathur region in Tamil Nadu with a male to female ratio of 1:1. We procured cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans from the radiological archives of the Department of Implantology, Adhiparasakthi Dental College and Hospital, allowing us to study the interforaminal region. We identified MLCs in cross-sectional and axial slices and evaluated frequency, location, and parametric variations with respect to the inferior border of the mandible (IBM) and the buccal plate. We assessed dimensions of the canal, considering 1 mm as the critical diameter potentially leading to bleeding complications if encroached upon during surgical intervention. Results Lingual canals were visible in 192 (96%) patients. None was present in eight (4%) patients. In total, 336 MLCs were present. The majority of subjects (52%) had two canals; 57% of median vascular canals (MVC) were supraspinosum, and 41% of MLCs had a diameter of more than 1 mm. Gender association with canal diameter was nonsignificant. Conclusion Morphometric analysis showed significant variability in the pattern of presence, distribution, and frequency of MLCs in the population. Thorough preoperative clinical and radiographic assessment of the patient is crucial to prevent untoward intraoperative incidents, thus minimizing functional impairments and surgical morbidity.