Evaluation of peri-implant bone using fractal analysis

Jung, Yun Hoa

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the fractal dimension of successive panoramic radiographs of bone after implant placement is useful in the characterization of structural change in alveolar bone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve subjects with thirty-five implants were retrospectively followed-up from one week to six months after implantation. Thirty-six panoramic radiographs from twelve patients were classified into 1 week, 1-2 months and 3-6 months after implantation and digitized. The windows of bone apical and mesial or distal to the implant were defined as periapical region of interest (ROI) and interdental ROI; the fractal dimension of the image was calculated. RESULTS: There was not a statistically significant difference in fractal dimensions during the period up to 6 months after implantation. The fractal dimensions were higher in 13 and 15 mm than 10 and 11.5 mm implant length at interdental ROIs in 3-6 months after implantation (P< 0.01). CONCLUSION: Longer fixtures showed the higher fractal dimension of bone around implant. This investigation needs further exploration with large numbers of implants for longer follow-up periods.