title: Tomographic Evaluation of Accessory Canals Penetrating at the Inner Side of the Anterior Region of Mandibles.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The anterior region of the mandible is generally considered to be a safe region to invasive procedures; however, on its internal face, uncountable penetrating canals may be encountered.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To perform morphometrical and topographical analysis of endosseous canals located at the inner side of the mandibular anterior region, using cone-beam computed tomography.
  
  
  METHODS
  Forty-six examinations were digitally analyzed. Localization of canals in relation to the midline, trajectories, communications between other anatomic structures and relation with teeth were evaluated. Longitudinal and transversal diameters of the canals and distances to the lower edge and symphysis of the mandible were also measured.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All individuals had at least 1 canal, with a mean of 2.3 and higher prevalence in the midline region. The adjacent teeth to the canals were usually the incisors but the authors could not determine the connected anatomical structure in most patients. Both the mean diameters were quite similar, about 1 mm; however, the trajectories and distances to the lower edge and symphysis of mandible showed a remarkable heterogeneity among the individuals.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These endosseous canals are consistent and clinically relevant findings and should never be underestimated by professionals.
authors.affiliation: *Division of Radiotherapy, Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil †Methodist University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil ‡Faculdades Metropolitanas Unidas, São Paulo, Brazil.
authors.forename: Luiz Felipe
authors.initials: LF
authors.lastname: Palma
authors.forename: Ariane Fraga
authors.initials: AF
authors.lastname: Buck
authors.forename: Marcelo Arthur
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Cavalli
authors.forename: Leonardo Augusto
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Lombardi
authors.forename: Flávio
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: de Ávila Kfouri
mesh_terms: D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007180:Incisor / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008875:Middle Aged