This is a case which was sent in by one of our members for discussion.

I will try an illustrate many of the basic concepts as we look at cases that are sent in for discussion. There are three standard images or views which make up the CT scan in film or interactive CT.  In this actual SIM/Plant™ case study you can see the three sections of the CT scan exactly as it appears on the computer monitor / screen There is an axial, panoramic, and cross-sectional view  [FIG 1].   For this example, we see an enlarged axial view at the cross-sectional slice number 100  [FIG 2].   

FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 2.

There are six implants in the maxilla supporting a fixed-detachable prosthesis.
Note: The radiolucent area which appears around the buccal aspect of this implant.

SLICE 100	SLICE 101	SLICE 102

FIGURE 3.  Cross-sectional slices 100, 101, and 102.

Question:  What do you think about this clinical presentation and the radiolucent area around the implant in slice number 100?

For those of you who want to learn about this new technology, I can suggest the textbook:

"Dental Applications of Computerized Tomography, Surgical Planning for Implant Placement" by  Stephen L.G. Rothman, MD, Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc. ISBN 0-86715-338-5, 1998, 239 pages.

If you would like to read my review of this book, it can be found in the Journal of Prosthodontics, 1999:8: pp. 143-144.  ADVANCE TO: Part Two