A novel image processing technique for 3D volumetric analysis of severely resorbed alveolar sockets with CBCT.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to present and validate a novel procedure for the quantitative volumetric assessment of extraction sockets that combines cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and image processing techniques.


METHODS
The CBCT dataset of 9 severely resorbed extraction sockets was analyzed by means of two image processing software, Image J and Mimics, using manual and automated segmentation techniques. They were also applied on 5-mm spherical aluminum markers of known volume and on a polyvinyl chloride model of one alveolar socket scanned with Micro-CT to test the accuracy.


RESULTS
Statistical differences in alveolar socket volume were found between the different methods of volumetric analysis (P<0.0001). The automated segmentation using Mimics was the most reliable and accurate method with a relative error of 1.5%, considerably smaller than the error of 7% and of 10% introduced by the manual method using Mimics and by the automated method using ImageJ.


CONCLUSIONS
The currently proposed automated segmentation protocol for the three-dimensional rendering of alveolar sockets showed more accurate results, excellent inter-observer similarity and increased user friendliness. The clinical application of this method enables a three-dimensional evaluation of extraction socket healing after the reconstructive procedures and during the follow-up visits.
Section of Periodontology, C.I.R. Dental School, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Valeria
V
Manavella
Section of Periodontology, C.I.R. Dental School, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy - federica.romano@unito.it.
Federica
F
Romano
Private practice, Turin, Italy.
Federica
F
Garrone
Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Polytechnic University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Mara
M
Terzini
Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Polytechnic University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Cristina
C
Bignardi
Section of Periodontology, C.I.R. Dental School, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Mario
M
Aimetti
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D001331:Automation; D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D003765:Models, Dental; D009929:Organ Size; D010518:Periodontitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D014081:Tooth Extraction