Extramandibular Presentation in the Course of the Inferior Alveolar Nerve: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

The inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) is a branch of the mandibular nerve, the third division of the trigeminal nerve (V cranial nerve). Its location and course into the mandible is very important because of its susceptibility to the injury during any surgical or prosthetic approaches. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a three-dimensional imaging modality, with less exposure than multi slice computed tomography (MSCT), being considered an ideal imaging tool for maxillofacial diagnosis. We present an unusual extramandibular submucosal course of IAN in relationship with a mandibular exostosis, and with no association with the sensory disorder.




J Med Cases. 2018;9(12):403-405
doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3215