Comprehensive review of the incisive branch of the inferior alveolar nerve

The incisive branch of the inferior alveolar nerve is a vital anatomical structure within the anterior mandible that has not been thoroughly defined and outlined in reports in the literature until recent years. Advances in radiological imaging, particularly the widespread use of cone-beam computed tomography has allowed for accurate visualization of the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) and its associated incisive branch of the inferior alveolar nerve. Surgical damage to the MIC, which could result in hemorrhage and sensory disturbance, may occur in commonly practiced oral and maxillofacial procedures, such as chin bone harvesting, implant placement, fracture repair and removal of pathologic entities of the anterior mandible. Knowledge of both the presence, dimensions and location of the incisive branch is a vital component to pre and peri-operative planning of oral and maxillofacial surgeries performed within the mandible, particularly within the interforaminal zone. In this article, the terminology, anatomy, imaging, surgical consideration, and pathology of the incisive branch will be discussed.