3D-CT vascular setting protocol using computer graphics for the evaluation of maxillofacial lesions

• Published in: Pesquisa odontológica brasileira Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 229 - 236
• Main Authors: Cavalcanti, M G, Ruprecht, A, Vannier, M W
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Brazil Sociedade Brasileira de Pesquisa Odontológica e Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade de São Paulo 01.09.2001
• Subjects: Computer Graphics; Dentistry; DENTISTRY, ORAL SURGERY & MEDICINE; Granuloma, Giant Cell - diagnostic imaging; Humans; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Mandible - blood supply; Mandible - diagnostic imaging; Mandibular Diseases - diagnostic imaging; Tomography, X-Ray Computed - methods; Granuloma de células gigantes; Giant cell granuloma; Mandible; Processamento de imagem assistido por computador; Image processing, computer-assisted; Mandíbula; Tomography, X-ray computed; Tomografia computadorizada por raios X
• ISSN: 1517-7491; 1517-7491
• DOI: 10.1590/S1517-74912001000300009

In this paper we present the aspect of a mandibular giant cell granuloma in spiral computed tomography-based three-dimensional (3D-CT) reconstructed images using computer graphics, and demonstrate the importance of the vascular protocol in permitting better diagnosis, visualization and determination of the dimensions of the lesion. We analyzed 21 patients with maxillofacial lesions of neoplastic and proliferative origins. Two oral and maxillofacial radiologists analyzed the images. The usefulness of interactive 3D images reconstructed by means of computer graphics, especially using a vascular setting protocol for qualitative and quantitative analyses for the diagnosis, determination of the extent of lesions, treatment planning and follow-up, was demonstrated. The technique is an important adjunct to the evaluation of lesions in relation to axial CT slices and 3D-CT bone images.