2-D and 3-D reconstructions of spiral computed tomography in localization of the inferior alveolar canal for dental implants

Objective. The purpose of this study was to compare and validate the accura cy of measurements on 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional reconstructions from spiral computed tomography in localization of the inferior alveolar canal. Study design. Four edentulous human cadaver heads with intact mandibles wer e imaged in a spiral computed tomography scanner. The data were transferred to a networked computer workstation to generate 2-dimensional orthoradiall y reformatted and 3-dimensional volumetric images. Linear measurements of t he images were made from the superior border of the inferior alveolar canal to the alveolar crest. The specimens were then dissected at corresponding locations, and physical measurements were made. Results. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2- dimensional computed tomography measurements and the physical measurements or between the 3-dimensional computed tomography measurements and the physi cal measurements. However, we did find a statistically significant differen ce between the 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional computed tomography measurem ents. Conclusions. 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional computed tomography images all ow accurate measurements for localization of the inferior alveolar canal.