Analysis of the posterior superior alveolar canal using cone beam computed tomography: an observational study

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the presence and anatomical characteristics of the posterior superior alveolar canal (CASP) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a patient series treated at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Cuenca, during the period 2017-2023. Materials and methods: A total of 375 patients with CBCT examinations met the inclusion criteria. The study analyzed the following variables: presence, position, diameter, and distance from the inferior border of the CASP to the maxillary sinus floor. Results: The CASP was present in 49.6% of patients. The most frequent location was intrasinus (49.6 %). The diameter with the highest prevalence was 1 to 2 mm in 57 % of cases. The average distance from the inferior border of the CASP to the maxillary sinus floor was 6.22-7.62 mm. Conclusions: The anatomical variability of the CASP warrants a radiological analysis using CBCT prior to surgical procedures involving osteotomy of the maxillary sinus lateral wall in order to avoid associated complications.