Quantitative evaluation of the canalis sinuosus relative to adjacent structures in cone-beam computed tomography images

Careful anatomical investigation of canalis sinuosus (CS) is essential to prevent damage to blood vessels and nerves in this area during surgical procedures, such as placing dental implants in the anterior maxillary region. This study investigated the relationship and distance between the CS and its adjacent structures.

A total of 400 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of Iranian adults aged 20–86 years were included in this retrospective study. Two observers assessed all the images twice with a time interval of one month. The closest tooth to the CS, its position relative to the CS, and distance measurements of the CS from adjacent structures were determined.

CS was found in 10.5% of all images. The mean diameter of the canal was 1.06 ± 0.29 mm, which was not significantly different between the age groups, right and left sides, or genders. The most common location of CS was mid-position relative to the upper lateral incisors. In linear measurements, only the distance from the CS to the buccal cortical plate and perpendicular to the nasopalatine canal exhibited a significant difference between the two sexes, with no significant difference between the right and left sides.

CS location was significantly more palato-lateral in males. There was no significant difference in the prevalence between the two sexes.