Accuracy and Concordance of Orthodontic Cephalometric Analyses Using the CephNinja® Program Compared to the Traditional Method

Abstract

Background and Objective: Cephalometric analyses are an important tool for diagnosis and orthodontic treatment planning. Some cephalometric analysis programs cannot be used due to the high cost and inability to use all the facilities due to the sanctions. CephNinja® is an available program for cephalometric analyses. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of the CephNinja® program for orthodontic cephalometric tracing and compare it with the common manual method in Iranian society. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 lateral cephalometric radiographs prepared by the 3D Promax device; The patient's teeth were selected to be in maximum intercuspation and the patient's head was in natural head posture. In every 100 lateral cephalometric radiographs, 24 landmarks were identified and then 20 desired variables were measured by traditional manual method based on Steiner's analysis. Also, the digital file of the same 100 lateral cephalometric radiographs was entered into the CephNinja® software (version 3.51). Again, 24 landmarks were determined and then 20 desired variables were measured based on Steiner's analysis. The obtained data were entered into the software and compared. Findings: The average ANB was 4.02±3.01 degrees in the traditional manual method and 3.08±4.04 degrees in the CephNinja® method. The average Wits was -1.12±3.90 mm in the traditional manual method and -1.13±4.16 mm in the CephNinja® method. The results show that there is no significant difference in the measurements of the two traditional manual methods and the CephNinja® software. Conclusion: Based on the current study, it can be concluded that CephNinja® software is reliable and can be used similar to traditional manual method for cephalometric analysis in orthodontic patients.

Keywords

• orthodontics
• cephalometry
• analysis
• software.