Injury Risk Estimation in Mandible-Related Surgical Procedures: A CBCT Study Based on Vital Interforaminal Anatomical Structures.

The mandibular interforaminal region has been considered safe for surgical procedures; nevertheless, the risk of injury to neurovascular structures, such as the mental foramen (MF) and its related structures (anterior loop [AL] and lingual foramina [LF]) should not be overlooked. The study aimed to evaluate the relative risk of injury to these structures during surgical procedures in the anterior region of the mandible based on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. A retrospective cross-sectional and observational study was performed on 250 CBCTs from adults (18-69 years) with dentate jaws. Linear measurements of the MF, AL, and LF were evaluated to estimate the risk of injury to these structures during chin-related surgical procedures. The most frequent distance between the base of the mandible (BM) and MF was 8 mm (30.2%). In addition, 20.4% of the CTs had 6 mm from the vestibular cortical bone to the LF. The commonly found measurement from LF to the apex of the nearest tooth was 7 mm (24.0%); 64.2% of the CTs showed a 2-mm distance between the most distal point of the dental implant site to the most anterior point of the AL. Safety distances for genioplasty techniques (MF to mandible base > 6 mm, 96.6% [CI 95%, 95.0%-98.2%]) were observed. Considering the 5-mm cut-off point between the lower limit of a hypothetical bone graft and the chin, 65.4% (CI 95%, 58.9%-71.9%) of CTs were within this distance. Regarding the safety margin of 8 mm, 85.6% (CI 95%, 80.8%-90.4%) were up to this value. This study found safety margins for genioplasty and chin bone grafting surgical techniques that adopt a 5-mm cut-off point. Further similar studies assessing other surgical methods and employing larger samples from different geographical origins may contribute to this field of investigation.

Potential role of the sella turcica X-ray imaging aspects for sex estimation in the field of forensic anthropology: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Several studies have evaluated the parameters of normality of the sella turcica (ST), which is important to face different craniofacial syndromes that may affect this structure. Therefore, this research summarized the scientific evidence on the role of ST in the sex estimation of non-syndromic individuals. The research protocol was registered (Prospective International Registry of Systematic Reviews # CRD42021256469), followed by an electronic search in six databases (PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and LIVIVO) and gray literature (Google Scholar and OpenGrey). Meta-analysis of linear (width, length, height, and diameter) and volumetric measurements, in addition to an assessment of risk of bias (RoB) and certainty of evidence, were performed. After the screening of 986 articles, 13 were evaluated by meta-analysis (1 307 males and 1 231 females). In subgroup analysis, females had lower values for width (lateral radiograph; -0.67 mm; P = 0.040), length (computed tomography; -0.23 mm; P = 0.020), and diameter (computed tomography; -0.27 mm; P < 0.001) compared to males. There was no statistically significant difference regarding height (P = 0.95), area (P = 0.72), and volume (P = 0.21). Most studies exhibited moderate RoB, and the certainty of evidence of the outcomes was very low. In this review, significant differences were observed between the sexes for the length and diameter of the ST; however, the heterogeneity of the studies must be considered. Key points: Studies from different geographic regions evaluated the morphology of ST according to sex and showed this anatomical structure as an important indicator of dimorphism.Meta-analysis showed shorter ST length and diameter in women.Subgroup analysis found lower ST width in women based on lateral skull radiographs.Subgroup analysis found smaller lengths and diameters in women based on CT scans.

Mandibular assessment of panoramic radiographs for sex identification / Análise do dimorfismo sexual através de índices radiomorfométricos em radiografias panorâmicas

ABSTRACT Sex determination plays a crucial role in the post-mortem identification of human remains. One effective approach for obtaining sex-related data is to use measurements of anatomical structures such as the mandible. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of mandibular radiomorphometric indices from panoramic radiographs (PRs) for the identification of sexual dimorphism. The study sample included 300 PRs of individuals aged 51 to 80 years from the northeastern region of Brazil. Four linear measures and three numerical indices were analyzed with Inkscape® version 1.0.1 for Windows by two blinded evaluators. After statistical analysis, the results showed that the linear measurements obtained from PRs are a reliable method for sex identification. However, the calculated indices of these measurements exhibited lower efficacy for the same purpose. Therefore, PRs proved to be a valuable method for sexual identification through mandibular assessment.

RESUMO A determinação do sexo é um dado importante para a identificação post-mortem de um indivíduo ou de restos mortais humanos. Uma maneira de adquirir dados quanto ao sexo é utilizar mensurações de estruturas como a mandíbula. O objetivo principal deste estudo é avaliar a utilização de índices radiomorfométricos de mandíbulas para a identificação de dimorfismo sexual, através de radiografias panorâmicas. O estudo foi realizado em exames radiográficos panorâmicos de 300 indivíduos entre 51 e 80 anos, residentes do Nordeste brasileiro. Foram analisadas quatro medidas lineares e três índices numéricos no software Inkscape® versão 1.0.1 para Windows, por dois avaliadores cegos. Após análise estatística, os resultados demostraram que as medidas lineares obtidas se configuram como um método seguro para a identificação sexual. Entretanto, os índices obtidos através destas medidas demostraram menor eficiência para o mesmo fim. Logo, as radiografias panorâmicas podem ser utilizadas como método eficaz para a obtenção da caracterização sexual através da mandíbula.

Evaluation of extra-narrow diameter implants in the oral rehabilitation of young patients after oral trauma: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Oral trauma is a common event in young patients and can lead to tooth loss, especially after avulsion of a tooth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival, esthetic outcomes, ridge preservation, and patient satisfaction of extra-narrow diameter implants (NDIs) as a temporary rehabilitation treatment for young patients who had lost permanent maxillary incisors after an avulsion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study comprised a prospective clinical and experimental study on a case series of 13 patients (age: 10-14 years) with a history of avulsion of one or more maxillary incisors. The patients received 19 mini-drive locks implants (Intralock) with acrylic resin crowns, divided into two evaluation arms: immediate implant placement (n = 10) and delayed implant placement (n = 9). The cases were followed up every 3 months with an initial tomography (T0) before implant placement and after 1 year (T1). The clinical stability of the implant in the bone and the retention of the provisional implant crown were evaluated, and the esthetic index was calculated at each follow-up. Intragroup and intergroup differences in alveolar ridge height and thickness were compared at T0 and T1, and a questionnaire was administered to assess the patient's perception of the treatment. RESULTS: The implant survival rate after 1 year was 78.9%. Alveolar ridge height and thickness increased in all cases at T1 (p < .05). Patients who received immediate implants had greater initial and final alveolar ridge thickness. The esthetic index progressively increased over the investigated time period (p = .001). Only one female patient presented with crown infraocclusion after 1 year. The patients' esthetic perceptions of their smiles significantly improved after treatment (p = .001). CONCLUSIONS: Extra-NDI had good survival rates, were effective at maintaining alveolar bone, and promoted aesthetic recovery and patient satisfaction with treatment during the period studied.

Methodological parameters for upper airway assessment by cone-beam computed tomography in adults with obstructive sleep apnea: a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: A reliable method for analyzing the upper airway (UA) remains a challenge. This study aimed to report the methods for UA assessment using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). METHODS: We performed a systematic review (PROSPERO #CRD42021237490 and PRISMA checklist) that applied a search strategy to seven databases and grey literature. RESULTS: In 29 studies with moderate-to-high risk of bias, investigators mostly reported the body position during CBCT (upright or supine) and hard tissue references, diverging in UA delimitation and terminologies. The meta-analysis showed two subgroups (upright and supine), and no statistical differences were identified (p = 0.18) considering the UA area. The volume in the OSA group was smaller than that in the control group (p < 0.003 and Cohen's d = - 0.81) in the upright position. Patients with OSA showed smaller anteroposterior dimensions than the control group and were not affected by the position during image acquisition (p = 0.02; Cohen's d = - 0.52). The lateral measurements were also lower in the OSA group (supine) (p = 0.002; Cohen's d = - 0.6). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with OSA showed smaller UA measurements in the upright (volume) and supine (lateral dimension) positions. The anteroposterior dimension was also reduced in patients with OSA compared to the control group, regardless of the position during CBCT acquisition.

Morphometric aspects and proposal of a new classification of genial tubercles in cone-beam computed tomography in a Brazilian population.

Objective: This study evaluated epidemiological and morphological aspects of genial tubercles (GTs) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This retrospective, observational and cross-sectional study evaluated 276 tomographs of adult dentate individuals (18-69 years). The presence and absence of GTs were evaluated, and in cases in which this structure was observed, linear measurements (length, height, and width), and anatomical distances. In addition, a GT classification was proposed based on the presence, number, and location of the tubercles. Results: Of the 276 CT scans, 28 (10.14%) had absence of GTs and in 248 CT scans GTs were present, of which 42 (57.5%) were from females and 106 (42.5%) from males. Regarding the number of GTS, the most prevalent variant was the two-tubercle-variant (143, 57.7%), followed by the presence of a single tubercle (n = 62, 25.0%), 3 tubercles (n = 40, 16.1%) and 4 tubercles (n = 3, 1.2%). The most prevalent classification was IIIA (n = 96, 38.7%), followed by IIIB (n = 60, 36.3%), IIA (n = 53, 21.4%) and IIB (n = 9, 3.6%). Conclusion: A prevalence of GT of approximately 90% was observed, with two GTs per exam as the most frequent finding. Men had a longer mean GT length compared to women. Female individuals exhibited a shorter distance from the base of the GT to the base of the mandible.

Condylar Position in the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with a Mandibular Advancement Device: A Pilot Study.

Objective To evaluate, through a tomographic analysis, the positional changes of the condyle when using a mandibular advancement device (MAD) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and to assess if the condylar positions influence OSA polysomnographic patterns. Materials and Methods Ten OSA patients underwent treatment with an MAD, and polysomnographic and tomographic examinations were performed before therapy (T0) and after MAD placement (T1). Results By comparing the T0 and T1 measurements, we observed advancement and extrusion of the condyles in all patients ( p < 0.001), as well as a decrease in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ( p < 0.001), increases in the mean ( p = 0.001) and minimum ( p < 0.001) oxyhemoglobin saturation, and a significant correlation between the anterior displacement of the right ( p = 0.003) and left ( p = 0.015) condyles. Discussion Condylar advancement was directly correlated with OSA improvement: the greater the advancement, the better the AHI.

Radiomorphometric indices for sex estimation in edentulous individuals: A receiver operating characteristic curve and discriminant function analysis-based study.

This study aimed to evaluate sexual dimorphism in Brazilian edentulous individuals using a formula based on mandible-related linear radiomorphometric measurements. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 390 panoramic radiographs (PRs) distributed into three age groups (51-60, 61-70, and 71-80 years). PRs were used to obtain linear measurements of the mandible and derived indices (superior and inferior panoramic mandibular indices [s-PMI and i-PMI, respectively], alveolar bone resorption [ABR] index), and the mandibular cortical index (MCI). Sex-related differences (and sex classifications) increased in the oldest cohort. Both s-PMI and i-PMI were shown to be significant in predicting sex in the age group from 71 to 80 years (p = 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively) and, when considering the mean of the sides, only the s-PMI was significant (p = 0.037). The ABR index was significantly associated with sex (p = 0.004) and not influenced by MCI, and was used to construct a formula for sex estimation, which demonstrated 69.0% accuracy in the age group of 71-80 years. Sexual dimorphism was evidenced by the formula based on the s-PMI, i-PMI, and ABR indices.

Milk kefir therapy improves the skeletal response to resistance exercise in rats submitted to glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.

Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) has emerged as a challenge after long-term glucocorticoids (GCs) administration. Exercise has been an important non-pharmacological option, while medications modulate bone remodeling despite adverse effects. In this way, milk Kefir (MK) therapy stands out as a safe alternative to improve bone metabolism. Our study aimed to investigate the effect of MK associated to resistance exercise on bone loss in rats with GIO. For this, sixty male Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups: normal (N) and subjected to GIO, which was subdivided into 4 groups: control (C), milk kefir therapy (K), Exercise (Ex), and Exercise+K (ExK). GIO was induced by dexamethasone (7 mg/kg - i.m.; 1×/wk, 5 wk). MK was administered daily (1×/day; 0.7 ml/animal) and the climb exercise with load was performed 3×/wk; both for 16 wk. Femur was collected for assessment of bone microarchitecture, quality and metabolism. GIO markedly reduced trabecular bone volume density (BV/TV) (-35 %), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) (-33 %), mineral content of femur (-26 %) as well as bone collagen content (-56 %). Bone strength and its biomechanical properties given by flexural strength (-81 %), fracture load (-80 %), and the number of osteocytes (-84 %) were lowered after GIO. GCs reduced osteoblast number and function while increased osteoclast number, altering bone remodeling (p < 0.05). On the other hand, ExK significantly improved bone microarchitecture and quality, marked by fractal dimension increase (+38 %), cortical volume (+34 %), BV/TV (+34 %), Tb.Th (+33 %), mineral content and collagen maturity, while reduced the space between trabecula (-34 %). The Ex and ExK increased the number of osteocytes (p < 0.05) and they were able to reverse the lower osteoblast number. Both treatments used alone significantly enhanced bone biomechanical properties, but the ExK showed a more significant improvement. ExK ameliorated bone strength and biomechanics (p < 0.05) and stimulated bone formation and modulated bone remodeling (p < 0.05). MK and exercise administered isolated or in association increased the percentage of collagen bone filling after GIO (p < 0.05), but only ExK improved collagen maturity. Our results showed that MK associated to resistance exercise enhanced bone microarchitecture, quality and metabolism, being therefore an interesting tool to improve skeletal response during GIO.

Diagnostic accuracy of paranasal sinus measurements on multislice computed tomography for sex estimation: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression.

This systematic review aimed to answer the question, "Are paranasal measurements obtained with multislice computed tomography able to accurately estimate sex?" This PROSPERO-registered systematic review included six databases and gray literature. Meta-analysis of linear and volumetric data was performed using a random-effects model, mean differences (MDs), and inverse variance. The QUADAS-2 tool-related risk of bias (RoB) and certainty evidence (GRADE approach) were assessed. A total of 1651 articles were initially selected from the main electronic databases for title and abstract screening. After removing duplicates and studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 18 studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. The screened studies included 2507 computed tomography of non-pathologic paranasal sinuses of adults aged between 18 and 40 years. Frontal sinus (FS) width (-4.89 mm; p < 0.00001) and maxillary sinus (MS) height (-3.73 mm; p < 0.00001) showed the greatest MD between females and males. Regarding volume, the MD was significant (p < 0.00001) in both paranasal sinuses (-3.01 and -1.04 cm3 , respectively). The best sensitivity (ability to identify males) and specificity (ability to identify females) were found for the anteroposterior (72.3%) and intermaxillary (69%) MS distances, respectively. In general, all studies exhibited low RoB and applicability concerns. The certainty of the evidence was categorized as very low to moderate. Both paranasal sinuses were shown to be dimorphic structures, which could be valuable tools for forensic identification using the FS width and MS anteroposterior distance measurements. However, heterogeneity among studies must be considered.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of lingual foramina anatomy and surgical-related aspects on cone-beam computed tomography: a PROSPERO-registered study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to summarize the evidence regarding lingual foramen (LF) characteristics using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A registered systematic review (#42,019,145,962) was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statements. An electronic search without date or language restrictions was performed in five databases, including grey literature (Google Scholar and ProQuest). The Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to evaluate the selected studies. RESULTS: A total of 6641 articles were identified, and 26 studies (8255 CBCT scans) were selected after a three-step selection process. There was a female predominance, and age ranged between 10 and 93 years. A total of 4336 LFs were observed among men (n = 2042) and women (n = 2294). Of this LF-related sample, 43.5% of the studies were from Asia, followed by Europe (33.5%), North America (14%), and South America (9%). Different distances from the LF to the alveolar crest (11.04-20.4 mm), buccal (4.73-4.91 mm), and lingual (8.75 mm) cortices and the inferior border of the mandible (8.48-26.59 mm) were evaluated. CONCLUSION: In summary, this systematic review found that LF is an anatomical structure with a high prevalence among the included studies (greater than 90%), regardless of the population evaluated. The occurrence of at least one LF was the most common pattern.

Is jaw fractal dimension a reliable biomarker for osteoporosis screening? A systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy studies.

OBJECTIVES: To summarize the evidence on the feasibility of maxillomandibular imaging exams-related fractal dimension (FD) in screening patients with osteoporosis. METHODS: This registered systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Diagnostic Test Accuracy statement. High sensitivity search strategies were developed for six primary databases and grey literature. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) items evaluated the risk of bias, and the GRADE approach assessed the evidence certainty. RESULTS: From 1034 records initially identified through database searching, four studies were included (total sample of 747 patients [osteoporosis, 136; control group, 611]). The meta-analysis showed that the overall sensitivity and specificity of the FD were 86.17 and 72.68%, respectively. In general, all studies showed low RoB and applicability concern. The certainty of the evidence was very low to moderate. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review showed that the jaw-related FD presented sensitivity and specificity values higher than 70%, and its sensitivity in osteoporosis screening was a better parameter than specificity.

Mental Foramen and Anterior Loop Anatomic Characteristics: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Cross-sectional Imaging Studies.

INTRODUCTION: The present study aimed to review the epidemiologic, topographic, and morphometric aspects of the mental foramen (MF) and anterior loop (AL) on cone-beam computed tomographic imaging studies. METHODS: An International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO)-registered systematic review (CRD42018112991) was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Two reviewers independently performed data extraction from observational studies that evaluated MF and AL on 7 electronic databases. MedCalc (MedCalc Software bv, Ostend, Belgium) software was used to perform a meta-analysis with a 95% confidence level. RESULTS: Of 1545 articles, 66 met the inclusion criteria, totaling 14,233 patients from 5 continents, with a total of 6655 females and 5884 males (some studies did not report sex), with an age range between 8 and 89 years. The most prevalent shapes of MF were oval (48.72%) and circular (44.36%), and the most frequent horizontal positions were between premolars (43.66%) and in line with the long axis of the second premolar (43.12%). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the articles that assessed AL, the mean prevalence was 43.18%, with most studies reporting bilateral localization as the most prevalent.

Development and validation of a new formula for sex estimation based on multislice computed tomographic measurements of maxillary and frontal sinuses among Brazilian adults.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy of the measurements of the maxillary sinus (MS) and frontal sinus (FS) in sex estimation among Brazilian adults using multislice computed tomography (MCT) and to develop and cross-validate a new formula for sex estimation. METHODS: The present cross-sectional research was conducted in two phases: (1) development of a formula on the basis of the measurements of both the sinuses (50 males and 50 females); and (2) validation study (20 males and 20 females). The linear measurements (height, width and diameter) were assessed using the RadiAnt DICOM software. A new formula for sex estimation was developed (multivariate statistical approach) and validated. Receiver operating characteristic curves, area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, accuracy and likelihood ratio were estimated. RESULTS: Males displayed higher mean values (width, height and diameter) of the FS and MS (p < 0.05). The MS was a better predictor in sex estimation (males vs females), compared to the FS (accuracy between 61-74% and 58-69%, respectively). The distance between the right and left MS displayed the highest accuracy (74%). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the new formula were 80%, 95.5% and 87.5%, respectively. 63.1% reduction was observed in the number of predictive values for sex estimation (individuals older than 30 years). CONCLUSIONS: The present MCT measurements showed a higher accuracy in the estimation of sex in males. The highest accuracy was associated with the distance between the right and left MS. The new formula displayed high precision for sex estimation.

Prevalence of apical periodontitis and root-filled teeth in 2500 panoramic radiographs of a Brazilian population sample / Prevalência de periodontite apical e dentes obturados em 2500 radiografias panorâmicas de uma amostra da população brasileira

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of teeth with apical periodontitis (AP), root-filled teeth with (RFTAP), and without apical periodontitis (RFT) in 2500 digital panoramic radiographs from an adult Northeastern Brazilian population sample. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 2500 panoramic radiographs from a private dental imaging center. Data regarding sex, age, RFT, AP, and RFTAP were collected. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed adopting p<0.05 as significant. Results: The female sex was more significantly associated with RFT and RFTAP than the male sex (p=0,023; p=0.040). The maxilla showed a higher association with RFTAP in the anterior region (p=0.023) and RFT in the posterior region (p=0.023). AP showed a higher prevalence in individuals aged ≥ 31 years (p<0.001). RFTAP showed higher prevalence in the age group 30-70 years (p<0.001). RFT exhibited a significant prevalence in individuals aged ≥21 years (p<0.001). Conclusion: This study showed a higher prevalence of RFT and a low prevalence of AP and RFTAP. Female patients presented a significantly higher prevalence of RFT and RFTAP. Age was an important factor associated with the prevalence of RFT, AP, and RFTAP.

Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de dentes com periodontite apical (PA), dentes obturados com (DOPA) e sem periodontite apical (DO) em 2.500 radiografias panorâmicas digitais de uma amostra da população adulta do Nordeste brasileiro. Métodos: Um estudo retrospectivo foi realizado em 2.500 radiografias panorâmicas de um centro privado de imagem odontológica. Dados sobre sexo, idade, DO, PA e DOPA foram coletados. Foi realizada análise estatística descritiva, adotando-se p<0,05 como significante. Resultados: O sexo feminino associou-se mais significativamente com DO e DOPA do que o sexo masculino (p = 0,023; p = 0,040). A maxila apresentou maior associação com DOPA na região anterior (p = 0,023) e DO na região posterior (p = 0,023). A PA apresentou maior prevalência em indivíduos com idade ≥ 31 anos (p <0,001). O DOPA apresentou maior prevalência na faixa etária de 30 a 70 anos (p <0,001). DO exibiu uma prevalência significativa em indivíduos com idade ≥21 anos (p <0,001). Conclusão: Este estudo mostrou maior prevalência de DO e baixa prevalência de PA e DOPA. Pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram prevalência significativamente maior de DO e DOPA. A idade foi um fator importante associado à prevalência de DO, PA e DOPA.

Mandibular incisive canal-related prevalence, morphometric parameters, and implant placement implications: a multicenter study of 847 CBCT scans

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the epidemiological and morphological features of the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a significant sample of subjects in Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective, multicenter study assessed 847 CBCT scans performed at four oral imaging centers. The sample comprised CBCT images acquired from dentate individuals who presented at least from tooth 35 to tooth 45 in the anterior mandible region. Data regarding patient sex and age, and MIC linear measurements (length and diameter in mm), anatomical distances (to the alveolar, buccal and lingual cortexes, inferior border of the mandible, and adjacent teeth apexes), and location were obtained. RESULTS: The MIC was more prevalent in women (76.3% [p < 0.001]) between the fourth and sixth decades of life (p < 0.001). It was present bilaterally (p < 0.001) and exhibited a mean length of 7.7 mm (standard deviation [SD]=3.7 mm). Spearman correlation and logistic regression analysis revealed collinearity between age and linear measurements (p < 0.05). The mean distances varied from the initial to the final portion of the MIC, respectively, in relation to the buccal cortex (mean = 2.6 mm, SD = 1.27; mean=3.96 mm; SD =1 .43), to lingual cortex (mean=5.13 mm; SD=1.7; mean = 4.61 mm, SD = 1.65), and to the inferior mandibular border (mean = 9.32 mm, SD = 1.92; mean=8.76 mm, SD = 2.07 mm). The difference in the proximity of the MIC to the apex of the inferior lateral incisor was statistically significant (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study revealed a high prevalence of MIC with a bilateral pattern in women who were between the fourth and sixth decades of life. Both the distance between the MIC and the lingual cortex of the mandibular alveolar bone, and the diameter of the MIC, decreased as its trajectory assumed a more anterior position

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Prevalence of calcified triticeous cartilage-compatible images on 2500 digital panoramic radiographs of a Brazilian population sample / Prevalência de imagens compatíveis com calcificação da cartilagem tritícea em 2500 radiografias panorâmicas de uma amostra populacional brasileira

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of calcified triticeous cartilage (CTC)-compatible images on digital panoramic radiographs of a significant Brazilian population sample. Methods: In this retrospective study, 2500 digital panoramic radiographs were analyzed by a trained examiner using contrast and brightness adjustments of the Adobe® Photoshop® CC 2015 software. Data were collected and exported for statistical analysis (p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant). Results: The prevalence of CTC-compatible images was 4.5% (61.1% in women and 38.9% in men). The most prevalent age ranged between 51 and 60 years (32.7%), and bilateral occurrence had a higher prevalence (46.9%). Women between the ages of 61 and 70 years showed a significantly higher prevalence of CTC-compatible images (p=0.027). Conclusion: This study showed a low prevalence of CTC-compatible images, which mainly occurred in women close to 70 years of age.

Objetivo: Investigar a prevalência de imagens compatíveis com calcificação da cartilagem tritícea (CCT) em radiografias panorâmicas digitais de uma significante amostra populacional brasileira. Métodos: Neste estudo retrospectivo, 2500 radiografias panorâmicas digitais foram analisadas por um examinador treinado utilizando ajustes de contraste e brilho através do software Adobe® Photoshop® CC 2015. Os dados foram coletados e exportados para análise estatística (p<0,05 foi considerado como valor estatisticamente significante). Resultados: A prevalência de imagens compatíveis com CCT foi de 4,5% (61.1% em mulheres e 38.9% em homens). A idade mais prevalente variou entre 51 e 60 anos (32,7%), sendo a ocorrência bilateral a mais comum (46,9%). Mulheres com idade entre 61 e 70 anos apresentaram prevalência significativamente maior de imagens compatíveis com CCT (p=0,027). Conclusão: O presente estudo evidenciou uma baixa prevalência de imagens compatíveis com CCT, que ocorreram, principalmente, em mulheres com idade próxima aos 70 anos.

Clinical, Imaging, and Therapeutic Aspects of Genial Tubercle Fractures: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: The present study reviewed the clinical, imaging, and therapeutic aspects of genial tubercle fracture (GTF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 2-phase systematic search of the literature was performed. Search strategies were developed for specific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and LILACS), including the gray literature (Open Grey and Google Scholar). The descriptors "genial tubercle," "fractures, bone," "mentalis," "spinae," and "mandible" were searched without restriction to year of publication. The CARE guideline was applied to evaluate methodologic aspects, and the Meta-Analysis of Assessment and Review Instrument was used to assess the risk of bias. The adopted level of significance was .05. RESULTS: Of 1,970 articles, 1,948 were excluded after applying the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, 2 studies were added through a manual search of the reference lists, totaling 24 articles. Occurrence of GTF was most common in women older than 61 years and men younger than 60 years (difference in age at occurrence was statistically significant; P = .019). The main clinical findings were edentulism, sublingual edema, and pain (P < .001). Previous trauma was commonly absent in women and present in men (P = .018). A cracking sound was mainly reported by women (P = .009). Isolated panoramic and occlusal radiographs were the most commonly performed examinations (P < .001). Diagnosis of sialolithiasis occurred in 37.5% of cases, and conservative treatment was performed in 76.6% of cases. CONCLUSION: GTF was mainly observed in older women, edentulous patients, and those without previous trauma. Conventional radiography and nonsurgical treatment were frequently reported.

Imaging Aspects of the Mandibular Incisive Canal: A PROSPERO-Registered Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cone Beam Computed Tomography Studies

PURPOSE: This study aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) studies using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A PROSPERO-registered systematic review (#42017056619) was conducted following the PRISMA statements to summarize current knowledge on the CBCT aspects of the MIC. A search was performed in PubMed's Medline and Scopus databases, without date or language restrictions, using the algorithm {[(Interforaminal region) OR (mandibular incisive channel) OR (mandibular incisive nerve) OR (mental mandible) OR (anterior mandible) (cone beam computed tomography). Also, the references were crosschecked. The Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument and meta-analysis was used to evaluate the selected studies. RESULTS: A total of 410 articles were found, and 25 studies were selected after a two-step selection process. The CBCT systems differed regarding field of view (FOV) (large, n = 3; medium, n = 2; small, n = 4; not informed, n = 16) and voxel size (0.15 to 0.4 mm). Geographically, the studies were distributed across four continents (South America, North America, Asia, and Europe), and there was a statistical significance of studies from the American and Asian continents (P < .0001). From 3,421 CBCT exams, the number of female patients was slightly higher than male, and the mean age ranged from 29.8 to 59.1 years. The overall mean prevalence of MIC was 89.6% ± 15.08%, and bilateral occurrence was statistically significant (P < .0001). The studies using a voxel size lower than 0.3 mm showed the highest mean prevalence (93.88%) in comparison with voxel size described as ≥ 0.3 mm (89.33%). Diameter (0.45 to 4.12 mm) and length (6.6 to 40.3 mm) showed great variability among the included studies. CONCLUSION: In summary, the results of this systematic review evidenced a high worldwide prevalence of MIC. There was no prevalence of MIC in relation to sex, and its presence was mainly related to adults between the fourth and sixth decades of life. In addition, great heterogeneity of methodologies was observed.

Mandibular Regional Odontodysplasia in an 8-year-old Boy showing Teeth Disorders, Gubernaculum Tracts, and Altered Bone Fractal Pattern.

Regional odontodysplasia (RO) is a rare nonhereditary developmental condition usually affecting maxilla and female patients. A few number of articles have used the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to describe imaging findings in RO. Thus, this article aims to report unusual imaging findings in a Brazilian child who presented with mandibular RO. A healthy 8-year-old boy was referred for evaluation of an anterior mandibular gingival enlargement. Radiographically, all right mandibular teeth showed wide pulp chambers and shortened roots with thin dentinal walls and open apices, featuring a "ghost teeth" appearance, which indicated a diagnosis of RO. Missing teeth and altered radiopacity were observed. Cone beam computed tomography provided great insight into RO, allowing to identify gubernaculum tracts (GTs) associated with RO teeth. Fractal analysis of the bone surrounding RO teeth revealed an altered trabecular pattern. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This case describes a rare developmental teeth-related pathology in a boy who showed unusual features on imaging exams. The CBCT provided the observation of RO tooth-related GTs, probably a new finding added to the international literature regarding RO, as well as the pulp chamber volume characterization of an affected tooth not published yet. In addition, it was observed an altered fractal pattern of the mandibular bone adjacent to RO teeth, which has not been described to date.How to cite this article: de Sa Cavalcante D, Fonteles CSR, Ribeiro TR, Kurita LM, Pimenta AVM, Carvalho FSR, Costa FWG. Mandibular Regional Odontodysplasia in an 8-year-old Boy showing Teeth Disorders, Gubernaculum Tracts, and Altered Bone Fractal Pattern. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2018;11(2):128-134.