Assessment of Bifid Mandibular Canal in Bangalore Population – A Panoramic Radiographic Study

Background: The presence and configuration of bifid mandibular canals (BMCs) are clinically significant in surgical procedures such as extractions, implant placements, and orthognathic surgeries involving the mandible. Failing to recognize these anatomical variations can result in complications. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of BMCs and correlate their morphological variations with side and gender. Methods: The study analyzed 300 panoramic radiographs retrospectively in the age group 10 to 90 years, including both genders. BMCs were identified, drawn, and classified according to the system proposed by Langlais et al . The data were then analyzed to assess the prevalence of BMCs and their correlation with side and gender. The data were subjected to Chi-square test ( P = 0.05) for statistical analysis. Results: Out of 300 samples, 141 were males and 159 were females, with a mean age of 37.79 years. The prevalence of BMCs was 32%, of which 25% cases were bilateral and 75% cases were unilateral. Conclusion: Of the 97 BMCs, it was found predominantly on the right side (52%) in comparison with the left side (22.6%). BMCs were more prevalent in males for unilateral cases and in females for bilateral cases. Overall, BMCs were more common on the right side. Hence, dental surgeons should evaluate these accessory canals before surgical procedures to minimize the intraoperative complications.