Relationship of mandibular and cervical vertebral bone density using computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Orthodontics
• Bone Densitometry

Background:

• Bone density (BD) assessment is crucial in diagnosing skeletal conditions.
• Comparing mandibular and cervical vertebral bone density provides insights into skeletal health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mandibular and cervical vertebral bone density (BD) using computed tomography (CT).
• To investigate the relationship between age, sex, and bone density in these skeletal regions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized cervical CT images from 114 patients.
• Measured mandibular and cervical vertebral bone density in Hounsfield units.
• Performed regression and correlation analyses to assess relationships.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant but weak correlation (r=0.269, r²=0.07) was found between mandibular and cervical vertebral BD.
• Mandibular BD showed no significant correlation with age in either sex.
• Cervical vertebral BD showed a weak negative correlation with age (r=-0.354, r²=0.13).

Conclusions:

• A low-strength correlation exists between mandibular and cervical skeletal bone density.
• Age does not significantly correlate with mandibular bone density, but it does with cervical vertebral bone density.