Identification of the mental neurovascular bundle: a comparative study of panoramic radiography and computer tomography.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the images of the mental canal in panoramic radiography (PR) and computed tomography (CT) by analyzing the concordance with diagnostic tests and examiners.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The position of the mental foramen (MF), distance to the lower mandibular border, anterior length of the mental loop (ML), agreement between examiners and diagnostic concordance were registered in 50PR and 50CT.

RESULTS

ML was identified (34.5/41%, PR/CT). PR magnification was 36.6% higher than in CT. The anterior extension and distance to the inferior border of the MF was higher for PR (2-6.2 mm). Inter-examiner agreement on CT was good (κ = 0.628) and very good on PR (κ = 0.845).

CONCLUSION

There is a magnification (36.6%) of the images in PR with respect to the CT. Identification of MF and ML is not related to the bone quality. Inter-examiner agreement is better on PR.