Multidetector CT and Dentascan software: dosimetric evaluation and technique improvement

Purpose. The development of new operative techniques in oral and maxillofacial surgery within the last few years has led to an increasing, demand for Dentascan examination, also in paediatric patients. It is necessary to modify acquisition parameters to reduce the absorbed dose. The aim of this study was to define a Dentascan protocol in which a reduced X-ray dose could be used. Materials and methods. Dosimeters were applied to the eyes, mouth, parotid glands, thyroid and back of the neck of an anthropomorphic Plexiglas phantom that underwent multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) Dentascan examinations. Both 120kV and 80 kV were used to study the mandibular and maxillary arches. Results. Examinations obtained with the 80 kV protocol showed a ten-fold reduction in the absorbed dose, without affecting image quality. Conclusions. We suggest a Dentascan protocol that reduces the Xray dose administered to the patient while ensuring the same high diagnostic accuracy.