A Clinical Evaluation of Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has become a valuable diagnostic tool for endodontics. The literature generally supports the accuracy of this imaging modality. However, a few authors have indicated that CBCT may have limitations in representing the true clinical presentation. The aim of this descriptive pilot study was to compare pre-surgical CBCT images against the actual clinical presentation of the hard tissues. METHOD: Eleven patients requiring endodontic surgery warranting CBCT imaging at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School were consented and enrolled for this IRB approved study.This cohort consisted of following; 9 males, 2 females, ages 24-56, and 13 teeth (8 anterior, 5 posterior). Provider treatment notes and clinical photographs were used to generate an in vivo clinical presentation for each patient. An associate investigator directed 33 questions at three CBCT evaluators with differing experience levels. RESULTS: The evaluators correctly identified buccal plate perforations 85% (28/33 questions) of the time. Perforations in the anterior region were more often correctly identified (89%, 16/18 questions) when compared to those in posterior regions (80%, 12/15 questions). Communication between a lesion and the maxillary sinus were identified 53% (8/15 questions) of the time. The amount of remaining cortical bone was underestimated in every CBCT for all subjects (18/18 questions) with a mean underestimation of 1.7mm. CONCLUSIONS: CBCT is an additional instrument available to practitioners to assist in treatment planning. Evaluator understanding of CBCT technology combined with knowledge and experience in interpreting CBCT images are critical components for correctly using this diagnostic tool.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 2013
- Accession Number
- AD1013008
Entities
People
- Jason W. Mathys
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences