CBCT and Foramina/Vascular Canals in the Anterior Mandible: a Systematic Review

Introduction: Oral rehabilitation with dental implants in the anterior mandible is a valid therapeutic approach. The presence of foramina allows the existence of a rich vascular plexus which can provoke several surgical complications. Objectives: To assess the utility of CBCT for: a) aiding in the determination of exact mandible anatomy; b) prevention of vascular surgical complications Methods: Article search was performed using Medline (PubMed) regarding foramina/vascular canals of the anterior mandible and CBCT technology, published between 2009 and 2015. The following words were used in the search: "mandibular lingual foramina cone beam". The search was completed with the review of the cited references of the selected articles in order to generate studies not initially identified. Inclusion criteria in the study: 1) Articles published between 2009 and 2015. 2) Articles in English. 3) CBCTs obtained from live human subjects. 4) Studies that evaluate the number of foramina and vascular canals in the anterior mandible. Exclusion criteria: a) Literature reviews. b) Articles performed in pediatric patients. c) Data obtained from cadaveric studies. d) Studies that don't include the anterior region of the mandible. Results: 9 articles were selected. Conclusions: The presence of foramina in the anterior mandible is frequent. CBCT is useful in the diagnosis and surgical planning of the anterior mandible. The information on the regional presence of foramina is important to reduce the occurrence f vascular surgical complications in the anterior mandible. Clinical Implications: The use of CBCT technology can reduce morbidity and increase predictability. Keywords: Foramina, Cone Beam