Assessing the Accuracy of Linear Alveolar Bone Measurements for Implant Planning Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography by Comparing Three Competent Three-Dimensional Imaging Software: An In Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the accuracy of linear alveolar bone measurements for implant planning using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) by comparing three 3D imaging software: CareStream (Carestream Health, Rochester, New York, United States), RadiAnt (Medixant, Poznan, Poland), and iRYS (Cefla s.c., Imola, Italy).

METHODS

Twenty-seven dry goat mandibles were used for this in-vitro study. Gutta-percha markers were placed on the mandibles, which were then scanned using a CBCT machine. Linear measurements of the alveolar bone were taken at the implant sites using CareStream, RadiAnt, and iRYS software, and compared to gold-standard measurements obtained using digital Vernier calipers. Measurements included bone height and width, and the absolute measurement errors were calculated to assess accuracy.

RESULTS

iRYS consistently provided the most accurate measurements compared to the control, especially at lower error thresholds. RadiAnt tended to overestimate, while CareStream yielded intermediate values. Across all thresholds, iRYS showed the least deviation, followed by CareStream and RadiAnt. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between the three software programs at higher error thresholds, confirming the reliability of each for implant planning.

CONCLUSION

All three software programs (iRYS, CareStream, and RadiAnt) offered reliable and accurate measurements for implant planning using CBCT, with iRYS being the most accurate. Clinicians can confidently use any of the three, although iRYS may be preferred for cases requiring higher precision.