Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) – 3D Imaging
The Future of Upper Cervical Chiropractic
3D Imaging – CBCT Scan
We utilize the most state-of-the-art 3D imaging for our patients. This allows us to visualize and measure the upper neck misalignment in a way that is completely revolutionary in the Upper Cervical Chiropractic profession.
What is a CBCT Scan?
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a specialized type of X-ray that can view the Cranio-Cervical Junction in 3 Dimensions (3D). Unlike traditional X-rays that take multiple 2-D images to attempt to view the 3-D human structure, the Cone Beam imaging can view all 3 dimensions in one scan. The imaging beam is a ‘cone-like’ formation that is moved around the patient to produce the highest quality images of bone. The Cone Beam Computed Tomography machine is able to capture a wide variety of angles in a single scan.
This modern technology serves to increase the accuracy of the patient’s diagnosis and ultimately lead to superior outcomes while emitting less radiation. Until recently, CBCT imaging has only been used in the dental industry with its increased detail and higher performance, as that was the intended design. With more powerful units being designed recently, the Upper Cervical Chiropractic world has found this imaging to be quite beneficial for better patient results. The Cone Beam Cat Scan imaging is superior to traditional X-rays and can now be utilized in a chiropractic setting.
Common Questions
- More accurate diagnosis
- Less radiation
- Better image quality
- Wider variety of viewing angles
- Easier patient experience
- More precise treatment planning
Since the human structure is 3 dimensional, it is vital to view it with 3-D imaging in order to accurately evaluate the alignment. Traditional X-ray is 2-Dimensional, so certain factors like anatomical variations, positioning errors, and asymmetry of structures can result in misdiagnosis some of the time. Until now, traditional X-ray was simply the best form of imaging we had available for the spine. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has changed that.
The radiation exposure is much less than standard X-ray. A standard Cone Beam Cat Scan is 240 microsieverts, which is equivalent to about 1/10 the radiation exposure of a standard 4-view cervical spine X-ray series.
Because of the increased information provided by the 3-D imaging, results are expected to be even greater than with traditional imaging and treatment planning more precise. With the use of software, your doctor can manipulate and measure the images in order to view the upper neck anatomy and surrounding structures with incredible clarity.
Imaging takes between 20 and 45 seconds and you may be seated or standing with your head in a supported position. You will be asked to remain very still while the arm of the unit rotates around your head by 360 degrees capturing multiple images from every angle. This experience is very similar to a panoramic dental X-ray.
Next Level Imaging
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a specialized type of X-ray that can view the Cranio-Cervical Junction in 3 Dimensions (3D). Unlike traditional X-rays that take multiple 2-D images to attempt to view the 3-D human structure, the Cone Beam imaging can view all 3 dimensions in one scan. The imaging beam is a ‘cone-like’ formation that is moved around the patient to produce the highest quality images of bone. The Cone Beam Computed Tomography machine is able to capture a wide variety of angles in a single scan.
This modern technology serves to increase the accuracy of the patient’s diagnosis and ultimately lead to superior outcomes while emitting less radiation. Until recently, CBCT imaging has only been used in the dental industry with its increased detail and higher performance, as that was the intended design. With more powerful units being designed recently, the Upper Cervical Chiropractic world has found this imaging to be quite beneficial for better patient results. The Cone Beam Cat Scan imaging is superior to traditional X-rays and can now be utilized in a chiropractic setting.
The Advantages of 3D Imaging
3D CBCT
Superior Image Quality
No overlap of structures or image distortion because of a 3D image of a 3D structure.
Lower Radiation Dose
One scan to capture the information needed.
More Accurate Diagnosis
Over 1,000 different angles of the spine.
2D X-rays
Poorer Image Quality
A 2-dimensional image from a 3-dimensional structure (the human body), may create distortion and overlapping of structures.
Higher Radiation Dose
Upper Cervical films can range from 3-6 images to gather the necessary information.
Limited Information for Diagnosis
One view/angle per image, limiting visibility.