Korean J Oral Maxillofac Radiol.  2006 Mar;36(1):25-32.

Correlation of bone quality in radiographic images with clinical bone quality classification

• Kim HW
• Huh KH
• Park KS
• Kim JH
• Yi WJ
• Heo MS
• Lee SS
• Choi SC

Abstract

PURPOSE: To investigate the validity of digital image processing on panoramic radiographs in estimating bone quality before endosseous dental implant installation by correlating bone quality in radiographic images with clinical bone quality classification.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
An experienced surgeon assessed and classified bone quality for implant sites with tactile sensation at the time of implant placement. Including fractal dimension eighteen morphologic features of trabecular pattern were examined in each anatomical sites on panoramic radiographs. Finally bone quality of 67 implant sites were evaluated in 42 patients.
RESULTS
Pearson correlation analysis showed that three morphologic parameters had weak linear negative correlation with clinical bone quality classification showing correlation coefficients of -0.276, -0.280, and - 0.289, respectively (p<0.05). And other three morphologic parameters had obvious linear negative correlation with clinical bone quality classification showing correlation coefficients of -0.346, -0.488, and -0.343 respectively (p<0.05). Fractal dimension also had a linear correlation with clinical bone quality classification with correlation coefficients -0.506 significantly (p<0.05).
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that fractal and morphometric analysis using digital panoramic radiographs can be used to evaluate bone quality for implant recipient sites.

Keyword

Radiography, Panoramic; Dental Implant; Image Processing; Computer-Assisted, Fractals

MeSH Terms

Classification*
Dental Implants
Fractals
Humans
Radiography, Panoramic
Sensation
Dental Implants