Cone-beam computed tomography a reliable tool for morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum and a boon for forensic odontologists

BACKGROUND/AIM: The aim of this pilot study was to perform morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum (FM) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included CBCT images of 120 individuals (60 males and 60 females). The sagittal and transverse diameters and circumference of the FM were measured. The data were statistically analyzed with Chi-square and t-tests to assess the level of significance for sex and age. RESULTS: The means of its sagittal and transverse diameters and also circumference were higher in males than in females. Statistically significant differences were found between transverse and circumference in case of males and females for all variables (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was found in sagittal diameter and age groups for all variables. CONCLUSION: CBCT images can provide valuable information regarding FM and the measurements of its sagittal and transvers diameters and also its circumference may be reliably used for sexual dimorphism in anthropometric analysis and forensic medicine.