A Comparison of Technique Errors using Two Radiographic Intra-oral Receptor-holding Devices.

PURPOSE

Technological advances in intra-oral receptors have resulted in film-holding devices that may or may not be interchangeable with photostimulable phosphor receptors. This study evaluated the number and types of technique errors that occurred when using PSP receptors with a standard film-holding device and a dual PSP/film-designed device.

METHODS

The Rinn XCP-ORA® (Standard) and the Rinn Flip-Ray® PA device (Test) were compared using rectangular collimation. DenOptix® imaging plates (sizes 1 and 2) were used as receptors. Fourteen periapical (10-size 2 and 4-size 1) projections were exposed per full mouth series on each Dental X-ray Teaching and Training Replica with both devices. Five Dental X-ray Teaching and Training Replicas were exposed by 3 experienced radiographers. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test to determine differences in the performance scores between the 2 devices. Technique errors (receptor placement, vertical angulation, horizontal angulation and cone centering) were reported using frequencies. An experienced evaluator critiqued each projection.

RESULTS

A total of 15 full mouth series (210 projections) were taken per device. The mean performance scores per device were 88.4 (standard device) and 88.1 (test device) and were not statistically different (p=0.88). Cone centering errors were the most common error observed in both the standard (36%) and test (43%) devices. Receptor placement errors occurred when using the standard (12%) and test (9%) devices. Vertical and horizontal errors were <2% for both devices.

CONCLUSION

Devices designed for use with film may be used interchangeably with photostimulable phosphor receptors. Some difference was noticed between devices regarding error type and occurrence.