[The effect of conical radiographic projection: a study in 3D]

Since 1925, the work of BROADBENT and the invention of the cephalostat (in 5), radiographic cephalometry has enabled us to have a detailed knowledge of craniofacial structures, and to better understand the form of the skull. At the same time it enabled us to understand the maxillo-facial growth and dental maturation. However, they have given rise to many controversies because of magnifying power and distortions. The question posed by magnification is still debated, even if some authors have attempted to solve the problems brought forward by distortion effect which seem to neglect radiographic conical projection. This study aims to appreciate not only the magnifying and its distortion consequences but equally the effect of conical X ray. The authors make use of mathematical equations and attempt to bring forward a correction based on 3D projection.