Prevalence of bifid mandibular canal and its relationship with third molar in Indian population: A retrospective analysis

Purpose: The location, configuration, and variations of mandibular canal such as bifid/ trifid/double mandibular canals play a significant role in performing surgical procedures in the mandible. The study was aimed to assess the prevalence of bifid mandibular canals using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study on CBCT images of full skull or mandible of patients, taken during the period from May 2014 to April 2016, was carried out. Images with any gross pathology involving mandible were excluded. CBCTs were examined by a single examiner for presence, type of bifid mandibular canal, and the relationship of bifid mandibular canal with the third molar. Results: A total of 408 CBCTs were examined, out of which 23 exhibited bifid mandibular canal with the prevalence of 5.63%. Type 2BC was the most common type of bifid mandibular canal. All the CBCTs showing Type 1U and 1B bifid mandibular canals, 33.3% of Type 2UC and 25% of Type 2BC bifid mandibular canals exhibited Class B relationship with the third molar. Conclusion: Suspicion of bifid mandibular canal on a screening orthopantomogram should be confirmed by CBCT. Assessment of the type of bifid mandibular canal will help in treatment planning of mandibular surgical procedures.