CT SCAN OF MAXILLA & MANDIBLE

Introduction 

CT (computed tomography) of maxilla and mandible is a jaw diagnostic imaging procedure that evaluates the upper maxilla and lower jawbone mandible. This scan not only captures high-resolution 2D slices but also allows for advanced 3D reconstructions which aids in the evaluation of trauma, pathology and surgical prep on the facial skeleton. 

What is a CT scan of Maxilla & Mandible? 

This scan uses X-rays and computers to construct highly accurate pictures of the maxilla and mandible jawbones. It proves useful in evaluating the microstructure of the bone, which assists in diagnosing and planning surgery on the complex structures in the jaw.

• Condition and alignment of the maxilla and mandible bones 
• Fracture and cyst or tumour detection 
• TMJ structure and function evaluation 
• Implant placement bone thickness evaluation 

• Assessment of maxillofacial trauma 
• Jaw and dental infections assessment 
• Maxillofacial reconstructive surgery planning 
• Orthodontic evaluation for implants and procedure planning 
• Lesions and bone congenital deformities diagnosis 

When and Who Needs This Scan? 

Indications: 

• Maxillofacial injury or potential fracture 
• Unexplained face swelling and pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) 
• Suspected malignancies or infections of bones, cysts, and soft tissues 
• Assessment of jaw associated congenital or acquired deformities 
• Assessment and planning of implants and corrective jaw surgery 

Patient Demographics: 

• Patients with facial injuries 
• Dental and orthodontic patients 
• Patients with jaw lesions or suspected masses 
• Children with developmental anomalies 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Ability to make accurate diagnosis given high quality images 
• Surgical guidance utilizing 3D reconstruction. 
• Easiest and quickest procedures done without any invasive methods. 
• Assists in uncovering conditions which may be acute or chronic. 

Conditions Diagnosed

• Fractures of the jawbone and cheekbone (or both) 
• Inflammation of the jawbones associated with the surrounding osteomyelitis 
• Primary and secondary tumours of the jawbone 
• Cystic (including, but not limited to, dentigerous cysts, odontogenic keratocytes) lesions of the jaw 
• Bony changes of the facial temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area 
• Congenital deformity of the bony palate (like cleft palate) 

• Do not wear clothing that has metal components 
• Take off dentures, hearing aids and any metallic objects 
• Speak up if there are allergies, or past surgical interventions that are known 

Pre-requisites 

• Referral from a medical doctor or a dentist 
• Screening with contrast if needed 
• Permission for the scan must be informed 

Best Time to Take the Scan 

• sui with clinical or surgical agenda 
• ideally during normal hours of operation for the quickest reporting 

Eligibility 

• Safe for a majority of people 
• Pregnant people should avoid this unless there is a strong clinical reason 
• Alert the scanner operator with information about dental implants and prosthetic work 

Procedure 

• You will be positioned lying down on the CT scanner bed 
• The patient's head will be placed in an optimal position for the required views 
• CT scan will be executed in a period of 5-10 minutes 
• In some cases, contrast will be utilized 
• Images are analysed and 3D imaging is performed by a radiologist 

Caution 

• Head movement must be minimized to obtain clear images of good quality 
• Notify the radiologist of any prior dental or maxillofacial surgical procedures. 
• Pregnant or has allergies with contrast dye, please notify.