Work

Trifid nasopalatine canal: case report of a rare anatomical variation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The nasopalatine canal (NPC) is a critical anatomical structure in the premaxilla, housing neurovascular components essential to maxillofacial surgery. While typically presenting as a single or bifurcated canal, rare variations such as a trifid configuration can complicate dental implant placement. This case report describes an incidental finding of a trifid NPC in a 38-year-old male during a pre-implant cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) evaluation. The CBCT revealed 3 distinct canals with symmetrical distribution, visible in axial, coronal, and sagittal views, converging at the incisive foramen without associated pathologies. This rare anatomical variant necessitated adjustments in the surgical plan to minimize risks of nerve injury and ensure implant stability. The case underscores the importance of CBCT in identifying complex NPC morphologies for optimizing surgical outcomes and highlights the need for further research into the prevalence and clinical implications of such variations.

Source: Radiology Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2025.10.004

Authors: Saba Khorram, Fereshteh Hayatimotlagh, Bita Heydarzadeh

Institutions: Shahid Beheshti University, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Dental Radiography and Imaging

Subfield: Oral Surgery

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $600