CBCT Image Quality
The quality of CBCT reconstructed images may be seriously jeopardized in the presence of metallic artifacts, thus impairing or even invalidating the diagnosis. The literature showed a significant variation of artifact expression amongst CBCT’s. Therefore, this project aims to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the performance of several CBCT’s in different diagnostics applications, by using an anthropomorphic phantom that allows the reproducibility of different clinical scenarios.
CONTACT
reinhilde.jacobs@kuleuven.be
Project 2: Optimization of orofacial cleft imaging protocols using device-specific low-dose cone-beam computed tomography
The aim of this study was to present optimized device-specific low-dose cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) protocols with sufficient image quality for pre-surgical diagnostics and three-dimensional (3D) modelling of cleft defects.
Researchers: Sohaib Shujaat, Karla de Faria Vasconcelos, Artúr Kesztyüs, Rocharles Cavalcante Fontenele, Nicolly Oliveira-Santos, Krisztian Nagy, Eman Shaheen, Reinhilde Jacobs
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Project 1: Feasibility of photon-counting computed tomography as a novel imaging modality for challenging endodontic diagnostic tasks
Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) is an innovative technological advancement in relation to x-ray detectors which offers ultra-high-resolution images. The current study aimed to evaluate the visualization ability of PCCT compared to cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) devices for challenging endodontic diagnostic tasks. A reference image of an anthropomorphic phantom was acquired using an industrial micro-CT device. Thereafter, the phantom was scanned with three imaging devices, which included PCCT scanner (NAEOTOM Alpha) and two CBCT devices (3D Accuitomo 170 and NewTom VGi evo) having standard and high-resolution acquisition protocols. The diagnostic tasks involved visualizing fine endodontic structures (apical delta, narrow canal, and isthmus) and root cracks. Three experienced examiners assessed the images and were blinded to the PCCT and CBCT devices. Each image was rated according to a three-grade scale (appropriate, acceptable, or inappropriate) for the diagnostic tasks. In relation to fine endodontic structures grouped together, PCCT showed similar diagnostic performance compared to the reference image (p>0.05). As for the CBCT devices, an excellent performance was only observed with the 3D Accuitomo 170 device at a high-resolution acquisition mode (p>0.05). The visualization of root cracks was also better with 3D Accuitomo 170 compared to other devices (p<0.05). Overall, PCCT and 3D Accuitomo 170 at a high-resolution setting showed similar performance for visualizing fine endodontic structures. In addition, the high-resolution CBCT protocol was superior for visualizing root cracks compared to both PCCT and other standard- and high-resolution CBCT protocols.
Researchers: Rocharles Cavalcante Fontenele, Fernando Fortes Picoli, Jader Camilo Pinto, Walter Coudyzer, Karla de Faria Vasconcelos, Amanda Farias Gomes, Joke Binst, Reinhilde Jacobs
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RESEARCH COORDINATOR
Prof. dr. Reinhilde Jacobs
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
Nele Vanloocke
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