Bifid mandibular canal: literature review and case report.
OBJECTIVE
The objective is to call attention to and to review the literature of the anatomical variation: bifid mandibular canal.


METHODS
A review of the literature is summarized. Additionally, the clinical and radiographic findings of a patient who presented a unilateral bifid mandibular canal are recorded.


RESULTS
Bifid mandibular canals can be detected on a panoramic radiograph. More precise information about the course of the canal can be revealed on cross sectional CT images perpendicular to the alveolar ridge.


CONCLUSIONS
Bifid mandibular canals are often unrecognized. The detection of these anatomical variations is important because of its clinical implications. Special attention has to be paid in surgical procedures involving the lower jaw.
Claeys
V
V
Department of Stomatology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Jette, Belgium. vclaeys@medkiozk.com
Wackens
G
G
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008340:Mandibular Nerve / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed