Application of Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Maxillofacial Diseases, Third Edition

A special issue of Diagnostics (ISSN 2075-4418). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Imaging and Theranostics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2026 | Viewed by 1415

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
Interests: orthognathic surgery; oral surgery; obstructive sleep apnea; oral and maxillofacial surgery; trigeminal nerve repair; temporomandibular joint surgery
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Diseases and pathologies in the maxillofacial region are functional and aesthetic challenges for patients. However, the anatomy in the maxillofacial region is complex, and dentists and maxillofacial surgeons rely on good imaging tools for accurate diagnosis and the management of these conditions. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), as an alternative to traditional computed tomography, offers a cheaper option requiring a lower dose of radiation, while providing good image quality, and has been a workhorse for the oral and maxillofacial imaging of hard tissue. The versatility and small space occupancy of a CBCT allow a clinic-based setup that improve access and popularize its usage.

The scope of the use of CBCT in the maxillofacial region ranges from simple oral surgery to complex maxillofacial deformities, diseases and trauma. Considerations and applications of CBCT in various anatomical spaces and clinical applications are of huge interest to practicing clinicians. Computer virtual planning and 3D printing based on CBCT images have further extended the clinical applications. Artificial intelligence can also use the data acquired from CBCT for the automated detection and diagnosis of disease conditions through machine- and deep-learning algorithms.

This Special Issue aims to cover the advances of CBCT in the diagnosis and management of maxillofacial diseases as well as other conditions that are of high clinical relevance.

Prof. Dr. Yiu Yan Leung
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • cone-beam computed tomography
  • imaging
  • radiology
  • oral and maxillofacial surgery
  • dentistry
  • diagnosis
  • risk management
  • 3D printing
  • artificial intelligence

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 1454 KB  
Article
CBCT-Based Retrospective Analysis of Posterior Superior Alveolar Artery Anatomy in a Saudi Population
by Abdullah Alqhtani, Amirah Yahya Alhaidan, Asma Jumah Aloufi, Faten Sifran Alharbi, Lama Mohammed Alkahtani, Raghad Hatem Alamri and Mohamed Omar Elboraey
Diagnostics 2025, 15(23), 2999; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15232999 - 26 Nov 2025
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sinus elevation in the posterior maxilla carries a risk of hemorrhage due to injury of the posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA). Accurate preoperative identification of the PSAA using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can enhance surgical safety. This retrospective study evaluated the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sinus elevation in the posterior maxilla carries a risk of hemorrhage due to injury of the posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA). Accurate preoperative identification of the PSAA using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can enhance surgical safety. This retrospective study evaluated the prevalence, location, diameter, and visibility of the PSAA in a Saudi population. Methods: A total of 117 CBCT scans (234 sinuses) obtained between 2022 and 2024 were analyzed. The PSAA’s visibility, diameter, and distances from the alveolar crest, sinus floor, medial wall, and sinus septa were measured. Associations with age, sex, smoking status, and the presence of sinus septa were statistically assessed. Results: The PSAA was identified in 98.3% of sinuses. Intraosseous and submucosal locations predominated in premolar and molar regions, respectively. Class A arteries (≤1 mm) were most frequent. Significant differences were found between premolar and molar regions in arterial location and distances from the alveolar crest and sinus walls (p < 0.001). Older individuals exhibited medial displacement of the artery in the molar region, and smokers showed significantly smaller diameters (p < 0.05). Sinus septa were associated with increased PSAA distances from the sinus floor and medial wall. Conclusions: The PSAA demonstrates high detectability and marked variability in position and caliber within this Saudi cohort. Recognition of these anatomical variations is essential for reducing complications during sinus-augmentation procedures. Full article
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Review

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18 pages, 361 KB  
Review
Clinical Benefits and Limitations of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Endodontic Practice: A Contemporary Evidence-Based Review
by Jasmine Wong, Chengfei Zhang and Angeline Hui Cheng Lee
Diagnostics 2025, 15(24), 3117; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15243117 - 8 Dec 2025
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Abstract
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has transformed endodontic practice by enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment of pulpal and apical pathologies. The aim of this review was to summarize the current clinical applications, benefits and limitations of CBCT in endodontic practice. A search of [...] Read more.
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has transformed endodontic practice by enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment of pulpal and apical pathologies. The aim of this review was to summarize the current clinical applications, benefits and limitations of CBCT in endodontic practice. A search of electronic databases identified relevant literature on CBCT applications, innovations, and limitations. Emphasis was placed on identifying contemporary studies published in the last 5 years. In general, CBCT demonstrates better diagnostic efficacy across multiple applications, including identifying complex anatomy, detection of apical periodontitis, pre-surgical planning and the diagnosis and management of longitudinal root fractures, traumatic dental injuries and root resorptions. However, clinicians should balance the benefits of CBCT against its shortcomings, such as increased radiation exposure, presence of artifacts and higher costs. Proper use requires adherence to guidelines, optimized machine settings, and interpretation by trained individuals. Recent research explores the integration of CBCT with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and guided systems. In summary, CBCT remains an essential tool for clinical decision-making in endodontics when used judiciously, with ongoing research continuing to expand its potential applications. Full article
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