Evaluation of canalis sinuosus in individuals with cleft lip and palate: a cross-sectional study using cone beam computed tomography

Objective: To evaluate the canalis sinuosus (CS) in individuals with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and compare the findings with individual's NON-CLP using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and methods: The sample consisted of 100 CBCT exams of NON-CLP individuals (G1 group) and 200 of CLP individuals (G2 group). Recorded parameters included presence of CS, accessory canal to the CS, diameter greater than 1 mm, gender, age, localization in relation to teeth, and adjacent structures. Statistical tests were used to compare the findings between groups. A p value of < 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results: A higher prevalence of accessory canal was found in the G2 (p < 0.001). The anteroposterior diameter of the right side CS in G2 was higher than G1 (p < 0.05), with average of 1.4 mm ± 0.4 mm. The accessory canal had a larger diameter in G2 than G1 (p < 0.05) with average of 1.3 mm ± 0.3 mm. Between UCLP, the CS presented the largest diameter for the side NON-CLP (p < 0.001). The accessory canal was more distant from the cortical buccal in G2 (P < 0.05). The dental region incidence of the accessory canal was molars and premolars for G2 and canines and incisors in G1.

Conclusion: Individuals with CLP show higher prevalence of accessory canal to the CS with larger diameters than NON-CLP. It is necessary that the professional make adequate planning prior to surgeries, using the CBCT, in order to avoid neurovascular lesions, since these individuals undergo several surgeries in the CS region.