The Benefits of CBCT Imaging in the Diagnosis of Individuals with Craniofacial Anomalies

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground Craniofacial anomalies are developmental anomalies impacting the growth of bones of the face and the skull. These anomalies are reported to affect a large population with a prevalence rate of 2% worldwide.Results Early diagnosis, and subsequently timely management, is crucial. Management often involves a multidisciplinary approach which requires a group of various physicians and dental specialists from different fields to provide proper guidance to both the patient and family members. Imaging forms a critical part of diagnosis and various types of imaging modalities are available for diagnosing and treatment planning for various craniofacial conditions.Practical Implications This article aims to provide a comprehensive review on the importance of 3-dimensional cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) usage in the diagnosis of patients with several common craniofacial anomalies, namely, Apert syndrome, Cleidocranial dysplasia, Achondroplasia, Hemifacial Microsomia, DiGeorge syndrome, Gardner syndrome, and Treacher Collins syndrome.

Keywords

• Cone beam computed tomography
• apert syndrome
• cleidocranial dysplasia
• achondroplasia
• hemifacial microsomia
• diGeorge syndrome