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Computed tomography of the maxillofacial region
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Computed tomography of the maxillofacial region allows obtaining an image not only of the bone structures of the maxillofacial region, but also of soft tissues, including skin, subcutaneous fat, muscles, large nerves, vessels and lymph nodes.
CT expands diagnostic capabilities in traumatic injuries, inflammatory and tumor diseases of various origins, primarily in the midface, in particular the upper jaw. The method allows resolving diagnostic difficulties, especially when the process spreads to the pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossae, the orbit, and the cells of the ethmoid labyrinth.
CT is good for recognizing intracranial complications of acute sinusitis (epidural and subdural abscesses), involvement of the orbital tissue in the inflammatory process, and intracranial hematomas in injuries to the maxillofacial region.
Along with assessing the condition of the bone elements of the temporomandibular joint, it becomes possible to visualize the intra-articular disc, especially when it is displaced forward.
Computer tomograms can reveal a difference in the density of individual areas of 0.5%, which expands the prospects for early diagnosis of inflammatory bone diseases. In addition, CT can be used to obtain an image of the entire dental row without significant projection distortions, which is important when planning reconstructive surgeries.
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