Cone-beam CT accuracy in measuring jaw soft tissue thickness

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology
Original article title: Evaluation of the cone-beam computed tomography accuracy in measuring soft tissue thickness in different areas of the jaws
The Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology (JISP) publishes original scientific articles on periodontology (the study of supporting structures of teeth) and oral implantology. It is a bimonthly open-access journal with special issues for specific occasions.
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Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Ehsan Moudi, Sina Haghanifar, Maryam Johari, Hemmat Gholinia, Mohammad Kazemi Ghanbarabadi


Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology:

(A bimonthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Evaluation of the cone-beam computed tomography accuracy in measuring soft tissue thickness in different areas of the jaws

Year: 2019 | Doi: 10.4103/jisp.jisp_675

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has emerged as a critical tool in dentistry, particularly for assessing hard and soft tissue thickness. While CBCT offers numerous benefits such as high spatial resolution and reduced radiation exposure compared to conventional CT, it also has limitations, especially in soft tissue contrast resolution. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of CBCT in measuring the thickness of soft tissues, which is essential for various dental procedures, including periodontal surgeries and orthodontic treatments.

Accuracy of CBCT in Soft Tissue Measurement

The research involved simulating soft tissue with pink baseplate wax placed on a dry human skull, where thickness measurements of 1, 2, 3, and 5 mm were taken using a digital caliper as the reference. CBCT measurements were conducted with two different scanners, and the findings indicated that there were no significant differences between CBCT and digital caliper measurements for thicknesses less than 2 mm. Although a statistically significant difference was observed for thicknesses greater than 2 mm, the mean difference was less than 0.1 mm, suggesting that this discrepancy is not clinically significant. The study demonstrated that the accuracy of CBCT in soft tissue measurement was reliable at an accuracy level of 0.1 mm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the statistical analysis indicated a minor difference between CBCT measurements and the digital caliper (the gold standard), this difference was deemed clinically unimportant. The findings suggest that CBCT provides a reliable method for measuring soft tissue thickness with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. This capability enhances the potential of CBCT in various dental specialties, allowing practitioners to effectively evaluate soft tissues while optimizing patient safety through lower radiation exposure.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the purpose of the study involving CBCT?

The study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in measuring soft tissue thickness in dentistry, particularly given CBCT's low contrast resolution.

How were the thickness measurements taken in this study?

Thicker pink baseplate wax was used to simulate soft tissues, applied to a dry skull, and measured both with a digital caliper and two different CBCT scanners over multiple sessions.

What were the results regarding the accuracy of CBCT measurements?

The study found no significant difference between CBCT and digital caliper measurements for thicknesses less than 2 mm, indicating high accuracy of CBCT in measuring soft tissue thickness overall.

What conclusions were drawn about the difference in measurements?

The analysis showed that while the mean difference between CBCT and caliper measurements was less than 0.1 mm, this difference was considered statistically significant but clinically unimportant.

What is the key takeaway regarding CBCT's measurement accuracy?

Cone-beam computed tomography measurement accuracy for soft tissues was determined to be 0.1 mm, indicating it can be a reliable tool for dental applications despite lower soft tissue contrast resolution.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Cone-beam CT accuracy in measuring jaw soft tissue thickness”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Measurement:
Measurement refers to the process of quantifying the dimensions or characteristics of an object or phenomenon. In the context of this study, it is critical as it pertains to accurately assessing the thickness of soft tissues using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and a digital caliper as reference tools.

2) Table:
A table is a systematic arrangement of data, typically in rows and columns, which allows for easy comparison and analysis. In this study, tables are used to present measurement results from different devices, providing clear insights into the accuracy and reliability of measurements across varying thicknesses of tissue.

3) Study (Studying):
Study signifies a systematic investigation to discover new information or validate existing knowledge. This research evaluates the accuracy of CBCT in measuring soft tissue thickness. The findings contribute to understanding the capabilities and limitations of CBCT, ultimately impacting clinical practice in dentistry and oral surgery.

4) Field:
Field refers to a specific area of study or professional practice. In this context, it pertains to the field of dentistry, particularly in imaging techniques. The advancements in CBCT technology and its applications in measuring soft and hard tissues have significant implications for dental diagnostics and treatment planning.

5) Science (Scientific):
Science embodies the systematic pursuit of knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis. This research exemplifies scientific inquiry, aiming to assess the accuracy of imaging technologies in clinical settings. Findings contribute to the body of scientific knowledge, enhancing the understanding of soft tissue measurement techniques in dentistry.

6) Rules:
Rules in scientific contexts often refer to the established protocols, methodologies, or guidelines that govern research practices. In the context of this study, adhering to specific rules ensures the reliability and validity of measurement comparisons, enhancing the credibility of the findings derived from using CBCT and other measurement tools.

7) Quality:
Quality refers to the degree of excellence or superiority of a product or measurement technique. In this research, quality is imperative as it impacts the accuracy of soft tissue measurements in dentistry. High-quality imaging and measurement techniques are essential for ensuring reliable clinical outcomes and improving patient care.

8) Surface:
Surface pertains to the outer layer or boundary of an object. In this study, it is relevant as the thickness of soft tissues, especially in dental applications, is measured from the surface. Understanding surface characteristics is crucial for effective planning and execution of surgical interventions in dentistry.

9) Performance:
Performance refers to how well a device or method achieves its intended purpose. In this study, evaluating the performance of CBCT in measuring soft tissue thickness is essential to determine its clinical applicability. Accurate performance assessments can lead to improved imaging technologies and better patient outcomes in dental practices.

10) Reliability:
Reliability signifies the consistency and dependability of a measurement or instrument over time. In this study, high reliability between digital caliper and CBCT measurements is crucial, as it ensures that the findings are trustworthy and can be used conclusively in clinical applications, impacting treatment planning significantly.

11) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical component of research where results are interpreted, implications are explored, and comparisons are made with existing literature. In this study, the discussion analyzes findings regarding CBCT accuracy and contextualizes them within broader dental and imaging science, offering insights for future research and clinical applications.

12) Company:
Company typically refers to a business entity or organization. In the context of this study, it may relate to the manufacturers of the imaging devices. The role of these companies in developing and improving dental imaging technologies is significant, influencing the accessibility and efficacy of tools like CBCT in clinical settings.

13) Gold (Golden):
Golden in a scientific context often symbolizes a standard of excellence. The term 'golden standard' refers to the benchmark against which other treatments or measurements are compared. In this study, the digital caliper serves as the golden standard for measuring soft tissue thickness, highlighting the comparative reliability of CBCT measurements.

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