Imaging Procedures for Pre-Operative Assessment

Abstract

Both quantitative (volume) and qualitative (e. g. degree of corticalisation) bone parameters must be assessed radiographically before the periodontologist or oral surgeon can consider the actual placement of implants. A large variety of imaging techniques are presently available: some have been utilised for many years; others have been made possible by recent advances in computer technology. A distinction could also be made between morphologic imaging to detect anatomic changes, and functional imaging to detect physiologic changes. Morphologic imaging includes film radiography (intraoral, panoramic, tomographic, scanographic, stereoscopic), digital radiography (direct, indirect, subtraction), computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), absorptiometry and ultrasonography. Functional imaging or radionucleide imaging includes scintigraphy, single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT), positron emission computer tomography (PET), thermography.