Portable dental x-ray units increase the mobility of forensic odontologists and allow more efficient x-ray work in a disaster field, especially when used in combination with digital sensors, according to researchers from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven School of Dentistry (Forensic Science International, September 2010, Vol. 201:1-3, pp. 112-117).
Images of five samples (four teeth and one formalin-fixed mandible) were acquired using a conventional wall-mounted x-ray unit (Minray, Soredex) and three portable dental x-ray devices (Anyray, Digital Dental; Nomad, Aribex; and Rextar, XSPec Technology) in combination with a phosphor image plate (PSP), CCD, or CMOS sensor. Three observers evaluated the images for standard image quality and forensic diagnostic quality on a four-point rating scale.
Statistical analysis showed good quality imaging for all systems, with the combination of Nomad and PSP yielding the best score, the researchers reported. A significant difference in image quality between the combination of the four x-ray devices and four sensors was established (p < 0.05).
"The present study demonstrated the feasibility of three portable x-ray systems to be used for specific indications, based on acceptable image quality and sufficient accuracy of the machines and following the standard guidelines for radiation hygiene," the researchers concluded.
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