Role of multislice computed tomography and three-dimensional rendering in the evaluation of maxillofacial injuries

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: The aim of this is to identify and classify maxillofacial fractures using multislice computed tomography (CT) and identify the advantages of three-dimensional (3D) rendered images over two-dimensional axial images in evaluating maxillofacial injuries. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study. Multislice CT evaluation was done on 60 patients with maxillofacial injuries using a 16-slice CT scanner. 3D rendered images, as well as coronal reformatted images, were reconstructed. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive study. Results: Individuals within the age group of 36–45 years were most commonly affected by maxillofacial injuries with males being more common. The most common cause of these injuries was road traffic accident in 40 (80%) cases. The mandible was the most involved region observed in 37 cases, maxillary and nasoorbitoethmoid region being the next common regions seen in 32 (53.3%) cases. 3D rendered images were similar or superior to axial images (in the assessment of fractures) in most patients and were inferior when the fractures involved the thin bones of the orbital region. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Multislice CT with 3D images provides better perception of the pattern of the fracture lines, and the displacement of the bony fragments thus helping in the faster and improved communication of the information to the referring physician. However, the 3D images alone have a limited role in evaluating orbital region fractures and also when there is minimal displacement of the fractured fragment.