Evaluation of Volume Width and Thickness of Masseter Muscle in Different Facial Patterns Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Aim: The present study attempts to assess morphologic variations of the masseter muscle in different facial patterns using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Methodology: A total of 30 young, healthy subjects in the age group of 20-28 years were selected and divided into 3 groups of 10 each as vertical, average and horizontal growers using lateral cephalograms. In these subjects, various anatomic dimensions of masseter muscle were measured using MRI, in sagittal, axial and coronal views.

Results: The results showed a statistically significant difference between the vertical and horizontal growth patterns (p<0.05), with respect to Masseter muscle volume, thickness, width at area of insertion.

Conclusion: It was concluded that volume, thickness as well as width of masseter muscle was more in horizontal growth pattern from muscle’s origin point as compared to vertical growth pattern