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Updated: May 21, 2026

Tree Core Analysis with X-ray Computed Tomography
Published on: September 22, 2023
Comparison of spatial and contrast resolution for cone-beam computed tomography scanners
Ruben Pauwels1, Jilke Beinsberger, Harry Stamatakis
1Oral Imaging Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. ruben.pauwels@med.kuleuven.be
Objective:
The purpose was to evaluate the perceived spatial and contrast resolution for a wide range of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices.
Study Design:
A customized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantom was developed. Inserts containing a line-pair and rod pattern were used. The phantom was scanned with 13 CBCT devices and 1 multislice CT (MSCT) device using a variety of scanning protocols. The images were presented to 4 observers for scoring.
Results:
The observer scores showed excellent agreement. A wide range was seen in image quality between CBCT exposure protocols. Compared with the average CBCT scores, the MSCT protocols scored lower for the line-pair insert but higher for the rod insert.
Conclusions:
CBCT devices are generally suitable for the visualization of high-contrast structures. Certain exposure protocols can be used for depicting low-contrast structures or fine details. The user should be able to select appropriate exposure protocols according to varying diagnostic requirements.
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