Cone beam CT of the musculoskeletal system: clinical applications

DiscussionCurrent CBCT equipment allows use for imaging of various musculoskeletal applications. Because of its low cost and relatively low irradiation, CBCT may have an emergent role in making a more precise diagnosis, assessment of local extent and follow-up of fractures and dislocations of small bones and joints. Due to its exquisite high spatial resolution, CBCT in combination with arthrography may be the preferred technique for detection and local staging of cartilage lesions in small joints. Evaluation of degenerative joint disorders may be facilitated by CBCT compared to CR, particularly in those anatomical areas in which there is much superposition of adjacent bony structures. The use of CBCT in evaluation of osteomyelitis is restricted to detection of sequestrum formation in chronic osteomyelitis. Miscellaneous applications include assessment of (symptomatic) variants, detection and characterization of tumour and tumour-like conditions of bone.Teaching Points• Review the spectrum of MSK disorders in which CBCT may be complementary to other imaging techniques.• Compare the advantages and drawbacks of CBCT compared to other imaging techniques.• Define the present and future role of CBCT in musculoskeletal imaging.
Source: Insights into Imaging - Category: Radiology Source Type: research