Accurate linear measurements in the anterior maxilla using orthoradially reformatted spiral computed tomography

Objectives: To validate measurement accuracy in proximity to the incisive canal from two-dimensional (2D) reformatted spiral computed tomography (CT). Materials and methods: Eight cadaver heads were examined with spiral CT with 1 mm thick axial slices and 1 mm.s(-1) table feed. The data was transferred to a networked computer workstation to generate 2D orthoradially reformatted images. The length of the incisive canal and width of the alveolar crest were measured independently by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists. The soft tissues in the region of the incisive foramen were removed and physical measurements made using an electromagnetic digitnzer. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between measurements on orthoradial 2DCT images and physical measurements (P>0.05). Conclusions: Accurate measurements for dental implant placement in proximity to the incisive canal can be made from reformatted spiral CT images.