2-D and 3-D reconstructions of spiral computed tomography in localization of the inferior alveolar canal for dental implants.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to compare and validate the accuracy of measurements on 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional reconstructions from spiral computed tomography in localization of the inferior alveolar canal.


METHODS
Four edentulous human cadaver heads with intact mandibles were imaged in a spiral computed tomography scanner. The data were transferred to a networked computer workstation to generate 2-dimensional orthoradially reformatted and 3-dimensional volumetric images. Linear measurements of the images were made from the superior border of the inferior alveolar canal to the alveolar crest. The specimens were then dissected at corresponding locations, and physical measurements were made.


RESULTS
There were no statistically significant differences between the 2-dimensional computed tomography measurements and the physical measurements or between the 3-dimensional computed tomography measurements and the physical measurements. However, we did find a statistically significant difference between the 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional computed tomography measurements.


CONCLUSIONS
2-dimensional and 3-dimensional computed tomography images allow accurate measurements for localization of the inferior alveolar canal.
Yang
J
J
Department of Oral Medicine, Temple University School of Dentistry, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
Cavalcanti
M G
MG
Ruprecht
A
A
Vannier
M W
MW
D000328:Adult; D003196:Computer Graphics; D003758:Dental Implantation, Endosseous; D006801:Humans; D007575:Jaw, Edentulous / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008340:Mandibular Nerve / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*