Reliability and Reproducibility of Linear Measurements of Alveolar Ridges Using Cone-beam CT Made by Radiologists and Periodontists

Background and aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra- and inter-examiner reliability and reproducibility of linear measurements on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images made by calibrated radiologists and periodontists.

Materials and methods. The alveolar ridge dimensions were measured on selected CBCT images by two calibrated radiologists and two periodontists. Intra- and inter-examiner reliability was evaluated by intra-rater and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results. Intra- and inter-examiners ICCs obtained with the different methods showed almost perfect matches. The results demonstrated high examiner reproducibility for linear parameters of alveolar ridges on CBCT images in presurgical implant site assessments.

Conclusion. The alveolar ridge dimensions provided by the radiologists might be useful for the periodontists. The measurements with small differences were related to the experience and skills of the examiner, inclination measurement, selection of the exact level of the alveolar crest and the ability to detect the exact anatomic borders on CBCT images.