Abstract

Introduction and Objective: Canalis sinuosus is an anatomical variation of the anterior maxilla, and it contains artery, vein and nerves. Canalis sinuosus runs inferior and anterior in the lower wall of the orbit. It runs from the lateral of the infraorbital canal and inferior to the infraorbital foramen and reaches the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus. From here it is directed medially and passes anteriorly through the lateral and inferior of the nasal aperture to the incisive area. Increasing treatments in the anterior maxilla, especially such as implant surgery, increase the risk of complications that may be encountered in the area. Knowing this structure precisely allows the surgeon to prevent complications that may occur. The aim of this study is to evaluate the frequency, location and diameter of canalis sinuosus in a limited Turkish population and to examine their relationships with age and gender.

Materials and Methods: This study is based on the retrospective evaluation of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. 209 CBCT images were included in the study. Age, gender, presence and absence of canalis sinuosus, diameter, number and location of canalis sinuosus were recorded. When examining the location of Canalis sinuosus, Oliveira-Santos's classification was used. Descriptive statistics, Pearson chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests were used in statistical analysis.

Results: According to the data obtained from statistical analysis, gender and age have no effect on the appearance of canalis sinuosus. Canalis sinuosus was observed in 70 (33.5%) of 209 KIBT images. The most common canalis sinuosus is in the lateral incisor region. 112 of them are smaller than 1 mm in diameter.

Conclusion: In order to avoid complications in surgical procedures such as increased implant treatments in dentistry, the anatomy of the region should be well known and variations should be displayed.

Keywords: Anatomic variation, Canalis sinuosus, Cone beam computed tomography