Morphology and dimensions of the nasopalatine duct according to facial biotype in Peruvian adults with cone beam computed tomography. An observational study

Introduction: The nasopalatine duct (NPD) is an important anatomical structure during maxillary surgical planning. Its characteristics are influenced by craniofacial development, which defines the facial biotype. This study aimed to determine the relationships between the dimensions and morphologies of the nasalopalatine canal and facial biotype in adults. Materials and methods: This observational and retrospective study analysed 150 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans from adult patients at a radiology center. The dimensions and morphology of the nasopalatine duct (NPD) were assessed via ProMax 3D Mid® equipment and Romexis® Viewer Software, version 6.4.1. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to examine the study variables, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted (significance level set at p < 0.05). Results: The mean length of the NPD in the sagittal section was 10.9 ± 2.8 mm in dolichofacial subjects, 10.6 ± 2.6 mm in mesofacial subjects, and 11.4 ± 2.9 mm in brachyfacial subjects. No statistically significant differences in NPD dimensions or morphology were found among the different facial biotypes (>0.05). However, at the level of the incisive foramen, males presented a significantly larger NPD than females did, with a mean difference of 2.64 mm (95 % CI: 0.34–4.94 mm). Conclusion: This study revealed no relationship between facial biotype and NPD characteristics, except for a larger duct in males. However, it provides region-specific data for a Peruvian adult population, which has been underrepresented in previous research.