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Computed tomography of maxillofacial infection
E Ariji1, S Moriguchi, T Kuroki
1Department of Dental Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) effectively diagnoses maxillofacial infections. CT imaging reveals infection spread within the masticator space and masseter muscle, aiding clinical management.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Maxillofacial infections can cause significant trismus and swelling.
- Understanding the spread of infection within fascial spaces is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of computed tomography (CT) in assessing maxillofacial infections.
- To analyze the patterns of infection spread within the masticator space and surrounding fascial planes.
Main Methods:
- CT scans of 18 patients with maxillofacial infections, trismus, and masseteric swelling were analyzed.
- The masticator space was divided into four compartments for detailed assessment.
- Changes in masseter muscles, parotid gland, and adipose tissue were evaluated using CT values.
Main Results:
- Infection spread into the upper masticator space in over half of the patients.
- Affected masseter muscles showed decreased CT values.
- The parotid gland and surrounding adipose tissue exhibited increased CT values.
Conclusions:
- CT is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring maxillofacial infections.
- CT imaging provides detailed information on the extent and location of infection within fascial spaces.