A case report of unusual anatomical variation: externalisation of inferior alveolar nerve.

Introduction: The risks of third molar surgery have been well documented with damage to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) being one of the largest concerns.

Presentation Of Case: This case report presents an impacted third molar with associated dentigerous cyst in which the IAN is externalised and runs along the lateral surface of the mandible.

Discussion: This is an extremely rare anatomical variation with most IANs lying inferior and lingually to third molars.