Three-dimensional CBCT images registration method for TMJ based on reconstructed condyle and skull base

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• Radiology

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders require precise imaging analysis.
• Current methods for analyzing TMJ bone changes may lack accuracy and reproducibility.
• Three-dimensional (3D) imaging offers potential for improved TMJ assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel 3D cone-beam CT (CBCT) registration method for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• To quantitatively and qualitatively analyze TMJ bone changes using 2D and 3D imaging.
• To establish a foundation for computer-aided diagnosis of TMJ disorders.

Main Methods:

• Semi-automatic segmentation of condyle and skull base for 3D model reconstruction.
• A two-stage registration process: manual rough registration followed by fine registration minimizing mean square error (MSE).
• Qualitative assessment using 2D/3D color-fused and surface-fused models; quantitative stability analysis through repeated experiments.

Main Results:

• Successful and accurate 3D registration of TMJ structures was achieved.
• Fusion models effectively displayed osseous abnormalities and morphological changes.
• Mean square error (MSE) for condylar and skull base registration decreased significantly (51.80% and 64.58%, respectively).

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D registration method is accurate, reproducible, and operator-independent.
• This technique enables precise analysis of TMJ bone structures.
• The method holds promise for advancing computer-aided diagnosis of TMJ disorders.