Evaluation of the Vertical Loop of the Inferior Alveolar Nerve at the Mental Foramen Region - A Retrospective Study.

The objective of this study was to assess the vertical loop of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) at the mental foramen region by measuring the vertical height of the loop from the lower border of the IAN canal to that of the lower border of the mental foramen using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan. A retrospective study was conducted using CBCT scans of 541 patients aged 18 years and above from March 2015 to March 2022. These scans were analysed to determine the height of the vertical loop of IAN at the mental foramen. Statistically significant value was obtained, with the highest value being 11.6 mm and a mean value of 3.81 mm. The right-side vertical loop of IAN at the mental foramen region was significantly higher in males (3.92 ± 1.78) than in females (3.59 ± 1.42). Statistically significant results were obtained on both sides amongst the different age groups. The vertical loop at the mental foramen region is considered to be significant for planning and performing various oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. A CBCT is a must, but in its absence, a safety zone of 7-10 mm is to be allowed to prevent inadvertent nerve damage.