Effect of Skeletal Pattern on Anterior Loop Morphology of the Mental Nerve: Implications for safe anterior segmental osteotomies

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Çulcu M. B., Öğüt E., Süzen M., Uçkan İ. S.

AÇBİD 2026 19.INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS, Antalya, Türkiye, 8 - 12 Nisan 2026, ss.109, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Antalya
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.109
  • İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Objective: This study evaluated the anatomical characteristics of the Mental Foramen (MF) and Anterior Loop (AL) in skeletal Class II and Class III patients. Materials-Methods: This retrospective study analyzed craniofacial CT data from patients treated at Istanbul Medipol University Faculty of Dentistry. Patients over 18 years with dentofacial deformities and no history of mandibular surgery, trauma, pathology, or metabolic bone disease were included. The predictor variable was skeletal classification (Class II or III). Outcome variables were MF diameter and position, and AL length and height. Covariates included age, sex, and side (right/left). Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test, chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests, and Pearson correlation. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The sample consisted of 104 patients (208 sides), mean age 27.11±7.24 years; 42.3% were female. Class III patients showed significantly greater distances from the MF to the symphysis and posterior ramus border than Class II patients (p=0.001). Vertical loop height was greater in Class III (p=0.013), whereas vertical MF diameter was larger in Class II (p=0.018). MF Position 3 was more prevalent in Class III (54.5%), while Position 4 was more frequent in Class II (38.8%; p=0.001). Males demonstrated higher morphometric values. Age showed positive correlations with AL length, vertical loop height, and distances from the MF and AL to the mandibular base (p<0.05). Conclusion: Skeletal classification influences mental neurovascular bundle morphology. Class III patients exhibit longer mandibular dimensions and vertical loops, potentially increasing nerve injury risk during anterior mandibular osteotomies. Class-specific anatomical considerations may improve surgical safety.