Effect of motion artifacts and their correction software on quality and interpretability of cone-beam computed...

Motion artifacts decrease the quality of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Knowledge about the efficacy and accuracy of motion artifact correction software programs can be beneficial.

This study aimed to assess the effect of motion artifacts and their correction software on quality and interpretability of CBCT images.

In this ex-vivo experimental study, a dry human mandible was moved mesiodistally and anteroposteriorly by 1 and 3 mm for 1 s by a robot during CBCT scanning. The images were reconstructed by Romexis software, and three observers evaluated the quality and interpretability of images with and without the application of Planmeca CALM™ software for artifact correction. The effects of distance and direction of movement, landmark location, scanner resolution, and application of CALM software on quantitative and qualitative interpretability, measurability, and sharpness of images were analyzed.

A high percentage of agreement existed among the three observers in all variables (P < 0.05). Landmark location and direction of movement had no significant correlation with qualitative interpretability, measurability, and sharpness of images (P > 0.05). Distance of movement had a significant effect on qualitative interpretability and sharpness (P < 0.05) but not measurability (P > 0.05) of images. Application of CALM had no significant correlation with qualitative interpretability, measurability, or sharpness (P > 0.05). Resolution of scanner had a significant effect on qualitative interpretability and sharpness but not measurability (P > 0.05).

Distance of movement ≤ 1 mm and application of CALM significantly improved the quantitative interpretability of CBCT images.