Simultaneous multilayer arthrotomography of the temporomandibular joint using photostimulable phosphor computed radiography.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the image quality of photostimulable phosphor computed radiography (CR) with that of a conventional screen-film system for simultaneous multilayer arthrotomography of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).


METHODS
X-ray attenuation, resolution and granularity was compared. Simultaneous multilayer tomography of TMJ was performed using a skull phantom and diagnostic quality of bone structures estimated. The clinical outcome is demonstrated in two typical cases.


RESULTS
X-ray attenuation was larger with CR. Granularity was more prominent in edge-enhanced CR images and was associated with inferior diagnostic quality. However, it was improved by using a higher tube voltage. Clinical CR without edge enhancement showed a similar resolution to the conventional system but this decreased with enhancement. In an enhanced arthrotomogram, the boundary between contrast medium, bone and soft tissue were clearly defined and a fibrous adhesion also easily seen.


CONCLUSIONS
Photostimulable phosphor CR is an acceptable alternative for simultaneous multilayer arthrotomography of the TMJ.
Honda
E
E
Department of Dental Radiology and Radiation Research, Faculty of Dentistry, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan.
Ohbayashi
N
N
Sasaki
T
T
Kino
K
K
D000328:Adult; D001175:Arthrography / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D012886:Skull / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014963:X-Ray Intensifying Screens / Q000706:statistics & numerical data