Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
SURGICAL AND RADIOLOGIC ANATOMY, cilt.48, sa.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Purpose Anatomical variations of the mandibular canal may increase complication risk during surgical and prosthetic procedures. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, subtypes, and morphometric characteristics of bifid mandibular canals (BMCs) in the Hatay subpopulation using a modified classification system. Methods Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 500 patients aged 18-85 years were retrospectively analyzed and evaluated by an experienced oral and maxillofacial radiologist. Patient age, sex, and the presence of BMCs were recorded. BMCs were classified into five morphological subtypes and further categorized according to their origin and termination. Canal length, diameter, and minimum distance to the mandibular cortex were measured. Results BMCs were identified in 182 of 500 patients (36.4%). No significant differences were observed according to sex, age, or side distribution. The anterior type was the most prevalent (42.1%) and exhibited the greatest mean canal length (22.65 mm). In the posterior region, the dental type BMC was more common in fully and partially dentate patients, whereas the NA type predominated in edentulous individuals. The largest canal diameter was identified in the retromolar type (2.12 mm). Conclusion CBCT is a reliable tool for identifying BMC subtypes and their morphometric features. An origin-and termination-based classification improves anatomical understanding and contributes to safer surgical and prosthetic procedures by facilitating the prediction of potential complications.