[The accuracy of 3D-CT volume rendering for craniofacial linear measurements].
OBJECTIVE
This study was designed to determine the consistency of craniofacial measurements using spiral computed tomography volume rendering by computer systems and sliding caliper.


METHODS
The study population consisted of 12 cadaver heads which were examined with spiral CT. The archived CT data were transferred to a workstation, and 3D-CT volume rendered images were generated using computer graphics tools. Linear measurements (n = 20), based upon conventional craniometric anatomical landmarks (n = 16) were made, by Display Tools and sliding caliper respectively. The consistency between the two measurements was analyzed by paired t test using SAS9.0 software package.


RESULTS
The results demonstrated no statistically significant difference between imaging measurement and physical measurement, P > 0.05.


CONCLUSIONS
There is significant consistency between spiral CT measurement and physical measurement for craniofacial linear distance. 3D-CT volume rendering images using craniometric measurements can be used for clinical and basic studies in stomatology.
Liu
Dong-Xu
DX
Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China. liudongxu@sdu.edu.cn
Wang
Chun-Ling
CL
Liu
Li
L
Dong
Zuo-Ying
ZY
Ke
Hua-Feng
HF
Yu
Zhao-Yang
ZY
D002102:Cadaver; D002508:Cephalometry / Q000379:methods*; D061827:Dimensional Measurement Accuracy; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D012886:Skull / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed / Q000295:instrumentation*