A case report of unusual anatomical variation: externalisation of inferior alveolar nerve.
BACKGROUND
The risks of third molar surgery have been well documented with damage to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) being one of the largest concerns.


METHODS
This case report presents an impacted third molar with associated dentigerous cyst in which the IAN is externalised and runs along the lateral surface of the mandible.


CONCLUSIONS
This is an extremely rare anatomical variation with most IANs lying inferior and lingually to third molars. This case reiterates the limitations of standard radiographic techniques such as the orthopantomogram (OPG).


CONCLUSIONS
We would advocate the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in cases which have adverse plain radiographic features to allow appropriate surgical planning.
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Addenbrookes Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
David
D
McAnerney
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Addenbrookes Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom. Electronic address: shadi.basyuni@nhs.net.
Shadi
S
Basyuni
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Addenbrookes Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Vijay
V
Santhanam
Cone beam computed tomography; Dentigerous cyst; Impacted third molars; Inferior alveolar nerve; Maxillofacial anatomy