The accuracy of reformatted images using a new virtual 3-dimensional dental implant system

Choi, Jin Seok; Kim, Eun Kyung; Han, Won Jeong

Abstract

PURPOSE
To compare the measurements of the mandible and the detectability of the mandibular canal on reformatted images using a newly developed 3-dimensional implant simulation program with traditionally used CT multi-planar reconstruction program and true measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten dry dog mandibles were used in this study. Occlusal templates for CT examination were fabricated and marked with gutta percha at ten sites. Axial CT scans were taken and reconstructed using DentaScan (D group) and Vimplant program (V group), and each mandible was sectioned at the previously marked sites (R group). Maximum vertical height (H) and maximum width (W) of the mandible, the distances from buccal border of the mandibular canal to the most buccal aspect of the mandible (X), and the distance from the superior border of the mandibular canal to the alveolar crest (Y) were measured, and the mandibular measurements in each group were compared. Detectability of mandibular canal was evaluated using a 3-point scale in both V and D groups by three oral radiologists and compared. RESULTS: H in the V group was slightly greater than that in the D group, and W and X in the V group was slightly less than those in the D group. H in the V group was less than that in the R group, and W and X in the V group was larger than those in the R group. The detectability of the mandibular canal did not show statistically significant differences between V and D groups. CONCLUSION: The results of the experiment show that the newly developed, inexpensive Vimplant TM simulation program can be used as an alternative to the traditionally used, and more expensive CT multiplanar reconstruction program.