[Improved imaging of mandibular cysts using dental-CT].

The purpose of this study was to evaluate orthopantomography and a newly developed CT software package (Dental-CT) in the preoperative assessment of mandibular cysts. In this study 16 cysts in 13 patients were examined radiographically by orthopantomography and dental-CT to reformat the axial scans into truly cross-sectional views perpendicular to the anatomical axis of the jaw. The obtained images were compared for visualisation of the alveolar canal, the mandibular anatomy and the cortical involvement. Dental-CT proved superior for establishing a correct radiographic diagnosis and was rated significantly (p < 0.001) higher with regard to examined points. Dental-CT has to be considered the method of choice in the preoperative evaluation of mandibular cysts providing detailed anatomical information needed for the further management. Radiation exposure remains within an acceptable range.