Cone beam computed tomography

  • D. Sarment
(ed) Wiley-Blackwell price £82.99; pp 296 ISBN 9780470961407 | ISBN: 978-0-4709-6140-7

The last two decades have seen an increasing importance placed on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in diagnosis and treatment planning. The more recent introduction of CBCT scanners in dental practices makes this an important area of X-ray radiology for dental professionals to be aware of. This text is edited by periodontist and implantologist David Sarment with contributions from 22 medical, dental and dual qualified practitioners. It is structured into 11 chapters and each is fully supported by a strong evidence base.

Chapter one introduces the reader to the physical science underpinning CBCT systems. This foundation ranges from the production of X-rays to the computerised re-adjustment and calibration of images. As a practitioner it is important to understand both the benefits and risks associated with CBCT exposure and this is highlighted in Chapter two. There is sound appreciation of the nature of ionising radiation, exposure times, field of view and rotation angles. I can remember the difficulty in getting to grips with this subject area at dental school; however, this refresher is provided in an easy to understand format. The biological effects of ionising radiation, both deterministic and stochastic are also stressed. A practical section presenting methods to minimise the radiation dose is compliant with Ionising radiation (medical exposure) regulations 2000.

What makes this book different from other titles on the market is the fact that it is applicable to both the maxillofacial surgeon but also the general dental practitioner. Chapters on maxillofacial pathologies and orthognathic surgery are useful for both surgical and orthodontic colleagues. For the specialist and general dentist, there are dedicated chapters for the beneficial use of CBCT in orthodontics, endodontics and periodontics. Chapter eight on CAD/CAM surgical guidance provides a case study-based discussion on the use of surgical guide planes to plan implant placement: a joint surgical and restorative approach to treatment planning is supported by 184 high quality clinical and radiological images.

As a hospital core trainee with rotations in maxillofacial surgery and dentistry; this book is a useful companion for providing guidance when determining the indications and uses of CBCT. The fact that it is a straightforward read combined with a fully evidence-based approach makes this text easy to recommend to surgical and dental colleagues within the primary and secondary sectors.