[Protocol of cone beam computed tomography analysis for patients with craniomandibular dysfunction]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a valuable imaging tool in dentistry.
• Current CBCT protocols often focus on specific analyses, potentially limiting comprehensive patient assessment.
• Integrating diverse analytical methods can enhance diagnostic capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a detailed, integrated protocol for cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis.
• To expand CBCT applications beyond traditional dentoalveolar and skeletal assessments.
• To facilitate comprehensive treatment planning by incorporating airway volume measurement for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) screening.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Medline databases up to April 2020.
• The proposed CBCT protocol integrates classic analyses with advanced methods.
• Included analyses encompass craniocervical cephalometrics (Rocabado, Sassouni PLUS), transverse jaw dimensions (Penn analysis), and airway volume assessment.

Main Results:

• The integrated protocol allows for a more thorough evaluation of craniofacial structures.
• It enables the diagnosis of dentoalveolar, skeletal, and cranial pattern disorders.
• Airway volume measurement provides a screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea.

Conclusions:

• A unified CBCT protocol enhances diagnostic information compared to isolated analyses.
• This comprehensive approach supports more complete and effective treatment planning.
• The protocol broadens the utility of CBCT in clinical practice, including OSA screening.