Journal of Indian Academy of Oral Medicine and Radiology (Jun 2024)
Morphological Analysis of Foramen Huschke Using 3D Imaging
Abstract
Background: Foramen Huschke (FH) occurs due to incomplete fusion, leading to the formation of an osseous developmental defect. Its development remains incomplete at birth. This foramen, which is located in the tympanic bone and assists in creating the tympanic cavity and External Auditory Canal (EAC), is the result of a process called membranous ossification. The presence of FH causes disturbances in the region of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and EAC. Aim: The goal of this study was to assess the occurrence and characteristics of foramen Huschke using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) based on age, gender, site, and side, as well as identify the presenting symptoms. Methodology: This retrospective analysis consists of 139 CBCT images of the TMJ region involving foramen Huschke were evaluated. The SPSS 22.0 program was used to tabulate and evaluate the collected data. Descriptive statistics and a Chi-square test were performed to compare gender and site according to the occurrence of foramen Huschke. Result: It was seen that out of 73 men, 15.06% had unilateral occurrence and 2.73% had bilateral occurrence, whereas among 66 females, 13.6% had unilateral occurrence and 3.03% had bilateral occurrence. Of the 139 subjects, 9 (6.47%) had unilateral occurrence on the right side, 11 (7.91%) subjects had unilateral occurrence on the left side, and 4 (2.87%) subjects had bilateral occurrence. A total occurrence of FH was observed in 24 (17.26%) subjects. The P value was statistically insignificant in the association between gender and site. Conclusion: A thorough understanding of this anatomical defect is imperative to avoid misdiagnosis and for the effective treatment of patients with TMJ and EAC disorders. Because of its thin sections, excellent spatial resolution, and multiplanar capabilities, CBCT is sensitive for detecting the foramen Huschke.
Keywords
