Estimation of Age and Gender by Assessing the Pterygoid Hamulus and Pterygoid Processess of Sphenoid Bone Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography – A Retrospective Study

Abstract Background: The pterygoid hamulus is a bony protrusion that protrudes medially and slightly posteriorly, like a hook. Individual differences in its size, shape, and orientation can be used as forensic identification cues. Objective: Using the angulation created by the sphenoid process and the size of the pterygoid hamulus, CBCT is used to predict age and gender. Methods: 100 CBCT images of patients were extracted from archives created with the PLANMECA PROMAX 3D MID PROFACE CBCT machine using ROMEXIS DENTAL software as part of a retrospective study. Three groups were formed out of these. The pterygoid hamulus’s dimensions were noted in the coronal plane, and the angulation created by the pterygoid processes was noted in the axial plane and measured in three dimensions. Results: Age and gender had a substantial impact on the length of PH on both left and right sides, while gender had a significant impact on the width of PH on right side alone. There was a favourable correlation on the angulation between gender on the left and right sides. The left-side angulation of females showed a positive connection. Conclusion: In forensic dentistry, the angulation created by the sphenoid bone’s pterygoid processes and the dimensions of the pterygoid hamulus are crucial. When compared to females, males’ values increased with age, which should be considered in forensics.