Detecting the manipulation of digital clinical records in dental practice

Abstract

(2017). Detecting the manipulation of digital clinical records in dental practice. Radiography, xxx (xxx) 1-5. Introduction: Radiography provides many advantages in the diagnosis and management of dental conditions. However, dental X-ray images may be subject to manipulation with malicious intent using easily accessible computer software. Methods: In this study, we sought to evaluate a dentist's ability to identify a manipulated dental X-ray images, when compared with the original, using a variant of the methodology described by Visser and Kruger. Sixty-six dentists were invited to participate and evaluate 20 intraoral dental X-ray images, 10 originals and 10 modified, manipulated using Adobe Photoshop to simulate fillings, root canal treatments, etc. Results: Participating dentists were correct in identifying the manipulated image in 56% of cases, 6% higher than by chance and 10% more than in the study by Visser and Kruger. Conclusion: Malicious changes to dental X-ray images may go unnoticed even by experienced dentists. Professionals must be aware of the legal consequences of such changes. A system of detection/validation should be created for radiographic images.

Uso de acervos de imagens em pesquisas na Odontologia Legal: reflexões éticas, bioéticas e legais

“…Due to the importance that image examinations hold in the different fields of work of Forensic Dentistry, several studies that used image collections were carried out to test the applicability or even validate methods used internationally in the Brazilian population [12][13][14] . Image collections have also been used in research to adapt or improve tools related to human identification [15][16] , as well as the detection of frauds that can occur in radiographic examinations when these are requested for administrative purposes 17 .…”