An Anatomical Study of Mandibular and Accessory Mandibular Foramen in Dry Adult Human Mandibles of South Indian Origin

Objective: Mandibular foramen is an important anatomical landmark for the inferior alveolar nerve blocks, mandibular osteotomies and implant treatment. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the mandibular foramen is very essential hence this study aims to determine the position of the mandibular foramen and incidence of accessory mandibular foramen in south Indian population. Material and methods:65 adult human mandibles were obtained from the anatomy department of MVJ medical college . The data was tabulated and statistically analysed. Results:The mean distance of the mandibular foramen to mandibular notch was 22.1±3.2mm. The mandibular foramen to anterior border of ramus distance was 16.9±2.7mm, from the mandibular foramen to the posterior border of the ramus was 11.9 ±2.2mm. The mandibular foramen to base of the mandible distance was 24.9 ± 3.3mm and to the gonion was 22.4± 3.2mm. Accessory mandibular foramen was noted in 41.5% of the mandibles. Conclusion: Knowledge of the position of mandibular foramen and incidence of accessory mandibular foramen is useful for the maxillofacial surgeons, oncologists and radiologists in preventing neurovascular complications and misinterpretations.