Anatomical and radiographical study of the retromolar canal and retromolar foramen in macerated mandibles.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of the RMF in mandibles, considering gender and ethnic group. The RMC was also analyzed using periapical radiography.

METHODS: Eighty-six mandibles from adult individuals of both sexes, of white and black skin colours were analyzed. The presence of RMF (bilateral or unilateral) was observed, with the side and the number of foramina in each hemimandible. Five mandibles were selected for RMC evaluation by periapical radiography.

RESULTS: We observed at least 1 RMF in 16 mandibles out of a total of 86 (18.60%) and in 21 out of 172 sides (12.20%). The percentages were 27% in black individuals, 15.6% in white individuals, 23.8% in females and 13.8% in males.

CONCLUSIONS: The RMF is a reasonably frequent anatomical variation and shows no differences between sexes or ethnic group, can be unilateral or bilateral and presents no side preference. The RMC presents different types of course and can even establish contact with the alveolar cortical, which might further complicate surgical and anaesthetic procedures in this region.