[Computer-assisted image postprocessing in intraoral digital radiography].
BACKGROUND
Computer-assisted postprocessing was performed on selected digital dental radiographs using a professional software for photographic retouching.


METHODS
The optical characteristics of 22 digital intraoral images (radio-videographies) taken on 18 patients were modified as regards their density and contrast values. Three different kinds of densitometric curves, corresponding to particular changes in post-processing parameters, were preliminary defined as the most effective for the demonstration of root canals and of alveolar bone. They were then applied to each X-ray image and the pictures thus modified were subsequently printed and read on a blind basis by three observers who considered the conspicuity of each structure of interest (root canals and alveolar bone).


RESULTS
The results, submitted to statistical analysis, demonstrate that computer-assisted postprocessing can improve the visual yield and the diagnostic effectiveness of digital dental images in 67% of cases for the periapical bone and in 86% of cases for the root canals.


CONCLUSIONS
The most effective sets of post-processing parameters established for each structure of interest are proposed together with a pre-programmed function to be introduced into the software of digital radiographic equipments.
Lazzerini
F
F
Istituto di Scienze Radiologiche, Università degli Studi, Milano.
Nessi
R
R
Freschi
A
A
Gagliani
M
M
Uslenghi
C M
CM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000539:Alveolar Process / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010486:Periapical Tissue / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D019252:Radiography, Dental, Digital; D012984:Software