Common positioning errors in panoramic radiography: A review.
Professionals performing radiographic examinations are responsible for maintaining optimal image quality for accurate diagnoses. These professionals must competently execute techniques such as film manipulation and processing to minimize patient exposure to radiation. Improper performance by the professional and/or patient may result in a radiographic image of unsatisfactory quality that can also lead to a misdiagnosis and the development of an inadequate treatment plan. Currently, the most commonly performed extraoral examination is panoramic radiography. The invention of panoramic radiography has resulted in improvements in image quality with decreased exposure to radiation and at a low cost. However, this technique requires careful, accurate positioning of the patient's teeth and surrounding maxillofacial bone structure within the focal trough. Therefore, we reviewed the literature for the most common types of positioning errors in panoramic radiography to suggest the correct techniques. We would also discuss how to determine if the most common positioning errors occurred in panoramic radiography, such as in the positioning of the patient's head, tongue, chin, or body.
Stomathology and Oral Diagnostic Program, School of Dentistry of São Paulo, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Rafael Henrique Nunes
RH
Rondon
Biology Dental Buco Graduate Program, School of Dentistry of Piracicaba, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil.
Yamba Carla Lara
YC
Pereira
Psychobiology Graduate Program, School of Philosophy, Science and Literature of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
Glauce Crivelaro
GC
do Nascimento
Panoramic Radiography; Patient Positioning; Quality Control; Review