Characteristics of the Mandibular Canal in the Mandibular Angle Area and Its Significance in Minimally Invasive Treatment of Mandibular Angle Fractures

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical significance of the characteristics of the mandibular canal in the mandibular angle area by measuring its position, with a focus on minimally invasive treatment of mandibular angle fractures. Methods Sixty individuals in good health, who received cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans at the Stomatological Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, were chosen for evaluation. Measurements were taken of the distances between the mandibular canal and the external oblique ridge, mandibular angle, and cortical bone on the buccal side. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore the positioning trends of the mandibular canal and to discern any gender-based disparities. Results The average distance from the mandibular canal to the external oblique ridge in the mandibular angle region was 14.41 ± 2.41 mm, and the average distance from the mandibular canal to the buccal cortical thickness was 4.67 ± 1.20 mm. A notable statistical contrast was observed in the distance from the mandibular canal to the mandibular angle between males and females (P < 0.05). Conversely, there were no statistically significant differences between genders for the other measured parameters (P > 0.05). Conclusion The distance from the mandibular canal to the external oblique ridge remains consistent, showing no statistical variance between genders. For safer management of mandibular angle fractures through minimally invasive techniques, it's recommended to maintain a minimum distance of 17 mm between internal fixation screws and the external oblique line to prevent injury to the inferior alveolar nerve. Moreover, the proximity of the canal to the buccal cortical bone is relatively short, suggesting that conventional single-cortical screws may not adequately mitigate the risk of nerve injury.