Incidental findings in cone-beam computed tomographic images: Calcifications in head and neck region

Abstract

Summary Background/Aim: The use of CBCT in dentistry has been increasing popularity nowadays. CBCT images provide valuable information from anatomic structures and pathologies. Images obtained with CBCT allow for more appropriate treatment planning. The purpose of this study was to assess the calcifications which were found incidentally on CBCT images and to reveal the frequency and characteristics. Material and Methods: A total of 691 CBCT images which obtained from the patients were assessed. Demographic data and calcifications which were found out of primarily interest area were noted. The incidental findings were categorized and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 945 calcifications were discovered on 318(46.02%) of the 691 patients’ images. 373(53.98%) scans showed no calcificated findings. The age range of patients was from 5 to 84 years. The most common calcification was tonsillolith (86.03%), followed by stylohyoid calcifications (6.24%), antrolith and subdermal calcifications (2.33%). Conclusion: Calcified lesions in head and neck region were commonly seen in CBCT images. Although the most of the calcifications are asymptomatic and require no treatment but correct identification of these findings will reduce unnecessary further diagnostic assessments and will provide more appropriate treatment plans. It will also provide the ability comprehensively evaluation of underlying diseases and practitioners will have life-saving information by early diagnosis.

Incidental Findings in TMJ Imaging

“…They can also occur in minor salivary glands, primarily in the upper lip and buccal mucosa. According to literature, incidences of sialoliths are low, between 0.2% and 1.01% [81,82].…”

“…The most common sites include the pineal gland, habenula, choroid plexus, basal ganglia, falx, tentorium, petroclinoid ligaments, and sagittal sinus [111]. According to the literature, intracranial calcifications were common and occur at any age and of any ethnicity [81]. Kwak et al [112] reported that intracranial calcifications have male predilection.…”

“…Kwak et al [112] reported that intracranial calcifications have male predilection. According to literature reports, incidence rates of intracranial calcifications vary from 0.42% [81] to 71% [113]. The great differences between incidence rates may be due to many reasons such as sample size, the size of the FOV, radiologic imaging devices, and their different abilities in detecting pathologies.…”

“…Due to higher diagnostic sensitivity and specificity levels of CBCT, it became the first imaging tool option by clinicians. It became possible to make further analysis of the findings which could not have detected by conventional imaging modalities [81,121].…”

CBCT analysis of bone density in bicortical defects after augmentation with alloplastic and xenogeneic bone substitutes: A study on domestic pigs

“…The introduction of the CBCT scanner contributed to a significant reduction in the scanning time, radiation dose, costs, and also the possibility of its use in dental clinics as a standard equipment. CBCT scanners can be used in various diagnostic procedures in dentistry, providing precise diagnostic data not only in the region of interest, but also in the surrounding structures 10 . Soardi et al 11 also stated that there is no statistically significant difference in determining bone tissue density between microradiography or CBCT devices.…”