Retromolar canal as observed on cone-beam computed tomography: Report of two cases with clinical importance

Abstract

The retromolar canal (RMC) is an anatomical structure of the mandible with the clinical importance for surgical procedures such as impacted molar extraction and sagittal split ramus osteotomy. Since the RMC has omitted in anatomical textbooks and has rarely been reported in the dental literature, awareness of this condition is important. The aim of this study was to describe two cases of RMC and foramen on the basis of cone beam computed tomography images: One in a 53-year-old female and the other in a 64-year-old female. The authors believe that the present study will aid to the confirmation of the "RMC;" thus, permitting the planning of surgery with a lower risk of surgical damage.

Keywords

• Accessory innervation
• mandibular anatomy
• retromolar canal
• retromolar foramen