Cone-Beam Computed Tomography vs. Multi-Slice Computed Tomography in paleoimaging: where we stand

Abstract

Objective: Paleopathology and anthropology are fields of research which have benefited from the use of diagnostic imaging since its introduction in clinical setting. The deriving discipline, that is, paleoimaging, has effectively employed several diagnostic techniques. However, while Multi-Slice Computed Tomography (MSCT) has found its role in paleoimaging, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), despite its several advantages with regards to MSCT, still struggles to find a clear position in this field. The aim of our study is to evaluate the possible advantages CBCT could bring to paleoimaging. Materials and Methods:We describe the characteristics and role of CBCT in clinical applications, in forensic and legal medicine, and in paleopathology. We report the study of an ancient mandible using CBCT and MSCT, in order to compare the quality of the images obtained in terms of spatial resolution.Results: CBCT provides good quality images of mineralized tissues, and the possibility of imaging also metallic manufacts makes the technique suitable for the study not only of bony remains, but also of museum and archaeological artifacts.Conclusions: CBCT has a great potential to become a valid imaging technique for the study of ancient bone remains, and we encourage an increasing use of CBCT in paleoimaging.Significance: Our work revises the current uses of CBCT technology, and highlights the possible role CBCT can cover in bioarchaeological studies.Limitations: Further evaluation is needed in terms of the possible applications to paleopathology of the technique, being the use of CBCT for the study of bioarchaeological samples still an uncharted territory. Suggestions for further research:We strongly encourage the use of CBCT in paleoimaging, and suggest broader application of this imaging technique to the study of archaeological samples.

Panoramic Radiography Features of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws (MRONJ)

“…Computed tomography (CT), either cone beam CT (CBCT) or multislice CT (MSCT), can support MRONJ assessment through the evaluation of several radiographic signs of bone remodeling, such as cortex irregularities and subperiosteal bone formation [21]. While CBCT provides higher spatial resolution at a significantly lower radiation dose, MSCT appears extremely valuable in cases of soft tissue involvement [11,22,23]. Both techniques provide three-dimensional datasets which can be further processed to improve lesions visualization [17].…”

Development of a Cranial Suture Traction Therapy Program for Facial Asymmetry Correction Using the New Delphi Technique

“…Second, a verification process is required to organize program development and apply the programs to various topics. This necessitates performing accurate measurements using valid inspection tools, such as cone beam [ 62 ] and panoramic radiography [ 63 ], which should be addressed in future studies.…”

An Ancient Mesiodens Investigated by Cone Beam CT

“…CBCT in studying ancient human remains has been limitedly used so far, despite the important role of diagnostic imaging (paleoimaging) in paleopathology and anthropology [57,58]. Multi-Slice Computed Tomography (MSCT) has proved its place in paleoimaging, whereas CBCT, despite its advantages, is still not widely used as an imaging technique for the study of ancient bone remains [59].…”

“…Izzeti et al [59] used CBCT for studying an ancient child mandible discovered in an archaeological site in Northern Italy and made a comparison with MSCT in paleoimaging, emphasizing its role in imaging studies of ancient bone remains and encouraging its broader application in studying archaeological samples.…”