Cone beam computed tomography assessment of the anatomical variations in mandibular lingual foramen: A strobe retrospective cross-sectional study

The anterior mandible is a region that may frequently receive insufficient attention in surgical interventions; however, is crucial to recognize that this area associated with significant complications due to the presence of lingual foramina and the vascular structures passing through it. Notably, these foramina may exhibit variations in both different numbers and locations, necessitating diligent during surgical planning. The objective of this study is to evaluate the location, distribution, and prevalence of the median lingual foramen and lateral lingual foramen (LLF) as identified through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a sample drawn from the Turkish population. Measurements were taken concerning the frequency, distribution, location, and diameter (Df) of both the median lingual foramen and LLF. Additionally, the vertical distance to the inferior border of the mandible (Hinf) for each foramen, the horizontal distance (Hhor) from the deepest point of the median lingual canal and lateral lingual canal to the buccal cortical plate, as well as the lengths of the canals (Lc) were systematically recorded. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in the prevalence of lingual foramina or in the measurements of Df, Hinf, Hhor, and Lc when comparing male and female patients. It was observed that all CBCT scans exhibited the presence of at least 1 lingual foramen in the mandible. Notably, a significantly greater occurrence of LLFs was identified in the mandibular premolar region compared to other anatomical regions. The findings indicate a higher prevalence of mandibular lingual foramina within the Turkish population compared to previous studies. Specifically, the variations in the anatomy of mandibular lingual foramina and canals warrant careful consideration through CBCT imaging prior to surgical interventions in proximity to the inner surface and basis of the mandible, particularly in the anterior and premolar regions, to mitigate the risk of potential complications. Copyright © 2025 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.