Radiographic Evaluation Of Retromolar Canals And Juxta Apical Radiolucency On Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Objectives: To evaluate prevalence and location of retromolar canals and juxta-apical radiolucency using mandibular scans of cone beam computed tomography. Methods: An observational study was carried out on 70 CBCT scans to evaluate the prevalence and location of Retromolar canals and juxta-apical radiolucency on axial and coronal sections and also the number and type of retromolar canals. Assessment of Juxta-apical radiolucency was made in relation to third molar root to find out its location. Results: The prevalence of RMC and JAR was found to be 67.14% and 45.71% respectively. Unilaterally 30% (n=21) and bilaterally 37.1% (n=26) scans showed presence of RMC. Unilaterally 20% (n=14) and bilaterally 25.7% (n=18) scans showed presence of JAR. There was statistically non-significant difference seen between retromolar canal and juxta-apical radiolucency when compared with age and gender. Type A canal was most prevalent (25%) followed by type B (7.8%) and type C (5.7%). Conclusion: Retromolar canals and juxta-apical radiolucency must be taken in to considerations before any surgical procedures in retromolar region to avoid the post-operative complications. CBCT can be a best diagnostic tool for analysis of such anatomic variations.