Objective

  The aim of the study was to determine the clinical efficacy of maxillofacial cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the diagnosis of suspected mandibular fractures and to evaluate whether findings would lead to a change in treatment.

 Study design

  CBCT imaging was performed for 164 patients with suspected mandibular fractures (231 sites) but equivocal clinical and radiological findings (conventional radiography). Images were interpreted by oral and maxillofacial surgeons and treatment decisions based on pre and postimaging were compared. Linear regression analyses were performed.

  Results

  For 63.2% of sites (n = 146) the suspected diagnosis was confirmed by CBCT (P < .0001 R2 = 0.93). For 4.33% of sites (n = 10) no fracture was identified. Additional fractures were identified in 17.75% (n = 41) and additional infractures in 14.72% (n = 34). The treatment plan was altered for 9.52% of sites (n = 22).

 Conclusions

  CBCT imaging of suspected mandibular fractures resulted in a change in the treatment plan in 9.52%.

 Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology

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