Anatomic evaluation of the posterior superior alveolar artery using cone-beam computed tomography: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE: This systematic review examined the detection of the posterior superior alveolar artery, along with various anatomic characteristics, on cone-beam computed tomography images. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Studies were identified electronically through the Web of Science, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase databases. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using a 5-item binary scale. The detection rate, location, and classified diameter of the posterior superior alveolar artery were estimated as prevalence values. The diameter of this artery, as well as the distances from the artery to the alveolar crest and sinus floor, were estimated as means with associated 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies were enrolled, with 34 of these included in the meta-analysis. The mean detection rate was 79% (range: 72%–84%), and the mean diameter was 1.06±0.05 mm (range: 0.96–1.16 mm). The posterior superior alveolar artery was located intraosseously in 64% of cases. The mean distance of the artery from the alveolar crest was 16.71±0.49 mm (range: 15.75–17.68 mm), while the mean distance from the artery to the sinus floor was 8.85±0.4 mm (range: 8.05–9.64 mm). CONCLUSION: According to the findings of this meta-analysis regarding various anatomic characteristics of the posterior superior alveolar artery, severe hemorrhage after damage to this artery during sinus augmentation procedures is not a substantial clinical problem.