Evaluation and Measurement of Anterior Loop Length of Inferior Alveolar Nerve to Avoid Nerve Damage During Implant Surgery- A Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Study

Dental implant surgeries carry a risk of injury to
the terminal branches of the trigeminal nerve. Among
these branches, the mandibular division is particularly
susceptible compared to the maxillary nerve. Anatomical
variations in the anterior loop of the inferior alveolar
canal (IAN) are commonly observed.
Aim:-
The objective of this study was to evaluate different
anatomical variations of the anterior loop of the IAN
using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT),
considering age and gender. Additionally, the study
aimed to measure the length of the anterior loop to
facilitate safe implant placement in the most distal area
of the interforaminal region.
Material and Methods:-
The study analyzed 50 CBCT scans obtained from
patients. The length of the anterior loop of the IAN was
measured using the measuring tool provided by the EZ
3Di imaging software. Descriptive and analytical tests
were conducted to analyze the data.Prevalence was highest in the 20-40 years age
group, and males had a higher prevalence than females.Conclusion:-
CBCT and preplanning are recommended to
prevent nerve injury during implant surgery by
identifying and accommodating the loop, ensuring safer
implant placement.