A method for measuring three-dimensional mandibular kinematics in vivo using single-plane fluoroscopy.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomechanics
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Accurate in vivo measurement of three-dimensional (3D) mandibular motion is crucial for clinical applications.
• Existing methods often lack accuracy or utilize transoral devices that impede natural jaw movement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To refine an existing single-plane fluoroscopy method for 3D in vivo mandibular kinematics.
• To assess the accuracy of this developed method.
• To demonstrate its clinical utility through measurements during jaw movements.

Main Methods:

• Registration of single-plane fluoroscopy images with 3D low-radiation cone beam CT data.
• Validation through roentgen single-plane photogrammetric analysis in static and dynamic conditions (opening/closing, chewing).

Main Results:

• Static measurements showed low errors: 0.1 ± 0.9 mm for translations and 0.2° ± 0.6° for rotations.
• Dynamic measurements also demonstrated high accuracy: 1.0 ± 1.4 mm for translations and 0.2° ± 0.7° for rotations.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides accurate quantification of 3D mandibular motion in vivo.
• It avoids transoral devices, offering advantages for patients with dental issues.
• The method is valuable for research and clinical assessment of temporomandibular joint function and chewing biomechanics.