Surgical Tip of the Week #5
How To Avoid IAN Injury - Narrowing of CanalA quality panoramic x-ray is sufficient when assessing possible IAN injury while removing third molars. Nine panoramic radiographic markers can reliably predict IAN injury. A CT is recommended when injury is likely.

NARROWING OF CANAL
Narrowing of the IAN canal is a red flag radiographic marker. Since the tooth roots develop after the canal, the developing root can push on the canal causing radiographic narrowing of the canal. This may indicate intimate contact of the third molar root with the IAN canal.
- Flap
- Trough
- Section
- Split
- Remove
- Debride & Irrigate
- Close