The course of the inferior alveolar neurovascular canal in relation to sliding genioplasty.

The anterior course of the inferior alveolar neurovascular canal was determined in 52 hemimandibles using high-resolution radiographs. Significant variability was found in its course. It was noted that if the osteotomies for sliding genioplasty were performed at least 6 mm below the inferior border of the mental foramen, injury to the mental nerve would be reduced.