CBCTscans

CBCTscans, commonly written as CBCT scans, refers to medical imaging performed with cone beam computed tomography. The technology uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam and a flat-panel detector that rotate around the patient to acquire volumetric data, which is reconstructed into three-dimensional images with isotropic voxels.

CBCT is widely used in dental and maxillofacial practice for implant planning, endodontics, orthodontics, temporomandibular joint assessment, and evaluation of the paranasal sinuses. It is also applied in otolaryngology, forensic imaging, and selected ENT and craniofacial evaluations where high spatial resolution of bony structures is required.

Advantages of CBCT include high spatial resolution for hard tissues, relatively lower radiation dose compared with conventional multi-slice CT for small fields of view, rapid acquisition, and the ability to generate multiplanar reformats and 3D renderings. Limitations include poorer soft-tissue contrast than conventional CT or MRI, susceptibility to metal artifacts, and variable dose depending on machine settings and scan volume.

Interpretation requires training, and images are typically exported in DICOM format for viewing with specialized software. Clinical use should follow justification and optimization principles, applying the ALARA concept (as low as reasonably achievable) to minimize radiation exposure. Ongoing developments focus on dose reduction, improved artifact correction, and enhanced software tools for automated measurements and surgical planning.