Variation in shapes of coronoid process in human mandibles

Background: Various shapes of coronoid process have been described, they are triangular, rounded and hook shape. The shape and size of the coronoid process is influenced by dietary habit, genetic constitution, hormones and mainly by temporalis muscle activity. The coronoid process is a good auto bone graft. It has advantage of biocompatibility, availability and less operative time for harvesting. Objective: To study variations in shapes of coronoid process in human mandibles Methods: About 100 dried human mandibles were taken for study and categorized according to age group and both sexes. Results: The most prevalent shape was triangular in all age groups and both the sexes. The least prevalent shape was hook in all age groups and both sexes. It was observed that the mandible was triangular in 52.5%, rounded in 38% and hook in 9.5% of coronoid process. Conclusion: The coronoid process can be used for reconstruction of maxillofacial regions, orbital floors. It is also important to anatomist, anthropologist and forensic researches.