A cone-beam computed tomography study of canalis sinuosus and its accessory canals in a South African population.

OBJECTIVES: Canalis sinuosus (CS) is a clinically relevant structure in the anterior maxilla. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of CS and its accessory canals (ACs) in the South African population and describe its anatomical variations.

METHODS: In total, 500 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of the anterior maxilla were assessed for prevalence, sidedness, diameter, and distribution of CS. The frequency, number, diameter, configuration, and point of termination of ACs were also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis, chi-squared, and Fisher Exact tests with P < 0.05.

RESULTS: CS was present in most cases (99.6%), and commonly occurred bilaterally (98.8%). The mean diameter of CS was 1.08 mm (range: 0.50 mm-2.39 mm). Sex, population group, and age had no significant effect on the prevalence or sidedness of CS. Additionally, 535 ACs were observed in 58.8% of the sample, with 42.9% of ACs found bilaterally and 57.1% unilaterally. The mean diameter of the ACs was 0.86 mm on the left and 0.87 mm on the right (range; 0.50 mm-1.52 mm). The majority of ACs maintained a straight vertical configuration (72.3%). ACs most commonly terminated in the anterior palatal region of the maxilla (57.2%). No significant differences were found in any groups mentioned (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of CS as well as ACs were observed in the sample population. Due to their clinical significance, surgical planning with the aid of high quality CBCT scans of the anterior maxilla is advisable.