Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Iranian Journal of Radiology, cilt.22, sa.1, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Background: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), which provides three-dimensional evaluations necessary for precise assessment of anatomical features, has become a crucial component of dental volumetric analysis. While the stereological Cavalieri principle offers objective volume estimates, the influence of section orientation and slice interval variations on CBCT-based computations remains understudied. Specifically, the lack of standardized protocols for slice interval selection and section orientation can introduce variability in volumetric measurements, potentially affecting the accuracy and comparability of research findings and clinical diagnoses. This study addresses this gap by investigating how these factors impact volume calculations. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of section orientation (axial, sagittal, and coronal) and slice intervals (6, 8, 10, 12, 16, and 20 slices) on volume calculations from CBCT images using stereological techniques,specifically the planimetry and point-counting methods. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five irregularly shaped intraosseous defects were created in seven bovine femoral condyles. Volume estimations were performed using both planimetry and point counting methods on axial, sagittal, and coronal sectionsat varying slice intervals . Actual volume measurements, serving as the gold standard, were obtained using Archimedes' principle. This cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the influence of section orientation and slice interval on volumetric measurements. Results: No significant differences were found between section orientations (P = 0.051) or between methods (P = 0.628). Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis showed high agreement for both section orientation (0.951, 95% CI: 0.90-0.98) and slice intervals (0.923, 95% CI: 0.90-0.98). All calculated volumes were consistent with Archimedes' principle. Minor deviations, possibly due to measurement errors, did not reach statistical significance. These results suggest that section orientation and slice interval selection do not significantly impact the accuracy of volumetric measurements. Conclusion: Volumetric estimations were not significantly influenced by section orientation (axial, coronal, and sagittal) or slice interval variations when using planimetry and point-counting methods. These findings suggest that measurement accuracy is relatively robust with respect to these technical parameters.