Multidetector computed tomography of maxillofacial fractures

Abstract

Fracture morphology of maxillofacial trauma is often complex, so the clinicians should be familiar with the imaging findings. Various radiographic methods have been used for diagnosing maxillofacial trauma. In recent years, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) with multiplanar reformation (MPR) and three-dimensional (3D) images has become a standard part of the assessment of maxillofacial injury because of the exquisite sensitivity of this imaging technique for fracture. In this review, we will summarize the maxillofacial fractures using MDCT, especially mandibular fractures and midfacial fractures including maxillary fractures. We will also discuss the temporal bone fractures associated with mandibular trauma and the radiation dose of MDCT. Maxillofacial bones support functions such as breathing, smelling, seeing, speaking, and eating. Therefore, maxillofacial fractures require accurate radiologic diagnosis using MDCT and surgical management to prevent severe functional debilities and cosmetic deformity.

A Case of Medialized Lateral Maxillary Sinus Wall: A Pillar of Support

“…In recent years, MDCT has greatly aided in facial injury assessment, as this technology provides high-quality multiplanar views and enables 3D reconstruction. Ogura et al believe that the use of MDCT remains the imaging tool of choice given the complexity of MFT, as it can concurrently detect maxillofacial fractures, the degree of fragment dislocation, soft tissue edema, and the presence of hemorrhage [11]. On the other hand, MRI is still superior in detailed visualization of soft tissue, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injuries, hemarthrosis, paranasal sinuses, and traumatic aneurysm [12].…”

Mandibular coronoid process fractures: Prevalence and characteristic multidetector CT findings

“…The radiological diagnosis of a fracture of the coronoid process can be challenging sometimes, and the fracture may go undetected because of inappropriate radiographs [1]. However, in recent years, MDCT with MPR and 3D images has become a standard part of the assessment of facial injury as this imaging technique is highly sensitive to fractures [9][10][11]. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate mandibular coronoid process fractures with MDCT.…”

“…Recently, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) with multiplanar reformation (MPR) and three-dimensional (3D) images has become a standard part of the assessment of facial injury, as this imaging technique is highly sensitive to fractures [9,10]. MDCT is an effective tool for determining the maxillofacial fracture location, degree of fragment dislocation, soft tissue edema, and hemorrhage [11].…”

Glandular odontogenic cyst: a report of four cases

“…Imaging analysis is helpful for the diagnosis of glandular odon-togenic cyst, but histological analysis is necessary to distinguish glandular odontogenic cyst from other odontogenic cysts and central mucoepidermoid carcinoma because there is no remarkable difference in radiological findings among these lesions. Recently, multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) with multiplanar reformation (MPR) images has become a standard part of the assessment of maxillofacial lesions, as this imaging technique is highly sensitive to lesions [13,14]. However, to the best of our knowledge, glandular odontogenic cyst with MDCT has not been reported in the literature.…”