title: Applications of cone-beam computed tomography in fractures of the maxillofacial complex.
abstract: Imaging plays an essential role in the evaluation of maxillofacial fractures both pre- and postoperatively. Several studies support the use of conventional two-dimensional imaging for traumas involving mainly the mandible, but for more complex situations advanced imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging have higher indication. Nowadays, besides CT, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has appeared as a reasonable and reliable alternative considering radiation dosage, image quality and comfort for the patient. The purpose of this study was to review the fracture patterns involving the maxillofacial complex, provide a technical and practical comparison between CT and CBCT, and finally present the potential applications of CBCT illustrated with clinical examples.
authors.affiliation: The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA. shintaku@uthscsa.edu
authors.forename: Werner H
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Shintaku
authors.forename: Jaqueline S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Venturin
authors.forename: Bruno
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Azevedo
authors.forename: Marcel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Noujeim
mesh_terms: D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods*; D005147:Facial Bones / Q000293:injuries; D006801:Humans; D008446:Maxillofacial Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D012887:Skull Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed