ABSTRACT
Inferior dental/alveolar nerve injury (IDNI) is the most concerning complication associated with mandibular third molar (MTM) surgery. These injuries are multi factorial. Radiological features are routinely used to assess the proximity and relationship of the MTM to the inferior alveolar canal, which is often regarded as the most significant factor. Details of patient demographics were not given. The experience of the surgeons was also not described, but it was noted that clinicians with varying degree of skill undertook the procedures. Only the radiographic findings of the MTM were categorised, and this was based on the seven radiographic signs in the inclusion criteria. With regard to radiographic assessment, the study did not state whether one or multiple clinicians were involved in assessing them, leading to potential inter- and intra-observer error. The authors correctly highlighted that when multiple “at risk” signs are present, the risk of IDNI increases, but they were unable to stratify this risk due to small numbers.
