2D AND 3D CT RECONSTRUCTIONS OF THE FACIAL SKELETON - AN UNNECESSARY OPTION OR A DIAGNOSTIC PEARL

The introduction of spiral computed tomography (CT) has been a major a dvance in CT scanning, particularly considering the reduction in acqui sition time and improvements in 2-dimensional (2D) and 3D reconstructi ons. 314 out of 1262 CT examinations of the midface and jaws executed from September 1993 to September 1994 were performed in the spiral mod e. Our experience is critically reviewed and a guideline for the use o f spiral CT scanning of the midface and jaws for various diagnostic pu rposes is established: Complex midface fractures require axial spiral CT scanning with secondary coronal reconstructions. Because of the lon g processing time 3D reconstructions are reserved for planning surgica l repair of craniofacial malformations. Dental CT scans with calculati on of panoramic images provide important information prior to dental i mplant surgery and repair of alveolar clefts.