The anatomical and radiological evaluation of the Vidian canal on cone-beam computed tomography images

Introduction The aim of this study is to explore the anatomy of the Vidian nerve to elucidate the appropriate surgical approach based on preoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Materials and methods The Vidian canal and its surrounding structures were morphometrically evaluated retrospectively in CBCT images of 400 cases by the Planmeca Romexis program. The types of the Vidian canal were determined and seven parameters were measured from the images. Results Three types of the Vidian canal according to the relationship with the sphenoid bone were found as follows: the Vidian canal totally protruded into the sphenoid sinus (19.75%), partially protruded into sphenoid sinus (44.37%) and embedded inside bony tissue of the body of sphenoid bone (35.87%). The position of the Vidian canal was medial (34.62%), on the same line (55.12%) and lateral (10.25%) to the medial plate of the pterygoid process. The distance between the Vidian canal and the vomerine crest, the mid-sagittal plane, the round foramen, the palatovaginal canal, and the superior wall of the sphenoid sinus, the length of the Vidian canal and the angle between the Vidian canal and the sagittal plane was found to be 16.69 +/- 2.14, 13.80 +/- 2.00, 8.88 +/- 1.60, 5.83 +/- 1.37, 23.98 +/- 2.68, 13.29 +/- 1.71mm and 25.78 degrees +/- 3.68 degrees in males, 14.62 +/- 1.66, 11.43 +/- 1.28, 8.51 +/- 1.63, 5.78 +/- 0.57, 22.37 +/- 2.07, 12.91 +/- 1.26mm and 23.43 degrees +/- 3.07 degrees in females, respectively. Conclusions Our results may assist with proper treatment for surgical procedures around the Vidian canal with a high success rate and minimal complications. Therefore, the results obtained in this study contribute to the literature.