Volumetric analysis of the mandibular condyle using cone beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Accurate volumetric analysis of the mandibular condyle is crucial for diagnosing and managing various temporomandibular joint disorders.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers a non-invasive imaging modality for evaluating craniofacial structures, including the mandibular condyle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the accuracy of volumetric measurements of the mandibular condyle using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Cavalieri principle combined with planimetry for condyle volume estimation from CBCT data.

Main Methods:

• Five dry mandibles (9 condyles) were scanned using CBCT.
• Physical volumes were determined by water displacement (gold standard).
• CBCT-derived volumes were calculated using the Cavalieri principle and planimetry by three observers, with statistical analysis (Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, Pearson correlation) at p<0.05.

Main Results:

• Highly significant positive correlations were observed between the measurements made by the three observers.
• No statistically significant differences were found between the physical volumes and the volumes measured by CBCT (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

• The Cavalieri principle, applied with a planimetry method, is a valid and effective technique for estimating mandibular condyle volume from CBCT images.
• CBCT volumetric analysis demonstrates high accuracy and inter-observer reliability for the mandibular condyle.