Cone Beam CT

Cone beam computed tomography is a type of 3D imaging technology that uses cone-shaped X-rays to produce detailed images of the head, neck, and jaw, including TMJs, airway spaces, sinuses, nasal cavity, nasal valves, and septum. It allows for high-resolution views of the bone structure, soft tissues, and airways in these areas. It is a great tool that can be used to prepare patients for plastic and craniomaxillofacial surgery procedures.

1. Lower radiation exposure compared to traditional X-ray technology. With CBCT, the radiation dose is much lower than traditional X-ray technology, making it a safer option for our patients at Dr. Steinbacher’s office.
2. High-quality and resolution 3D images with detailed information. CBCT uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam and advanced software to capture high-resolution 3D images of the targeted area. This provides our doctor and his team with more detailed information about the patient’s anatomy, allowing for better diagnosis and treatment planning. This enables precise visualization of bone morphology, joint spaces, and anatomical relationships. This is crucial for planning complex procedures such as orthognathic surgery, TMJ interventions, and facial bone implants. The scanner we have is the latest state-of-the-art, which also incorporates 3D facial soft-tissue data.  
3. Immediate Access to Imaging. Having this technology in our office enables us to immediately review your case and findings on-site and in real time during your appointment.  We then can perform additional manipulations of the data off-line and can do high fidelity 3D analysis and planning. We use this for jaw/orthognathic work-ups, TMJ, facial bone implant planning, facial feminization surgery, facial bone contouring or adjustment surgery, nasal surgery and rhinoplasty.  
4. Quick and efficient. Traditional CT scans can take 10-30 minutes to complete, while CBCT scans only take a few minutes at most. This not only saves the patient’s time but also allows more patients to be seen in a shorter amount of time.
5. Lower radiation exposure. Compared to traditional CT scans, CBCT technology exposes patients to significantly lower levels of radiation. This is because CBCT machines use cone-shaped X-rays, limiting the radiation dose to the targeted area.
6. Non-invasive and painless procedure. Unlike other imaging techniques, such as MRI or PET scans, CBCT does not require injections or invasive procedures, making it a comfortable experience for the patient.
7. Enhanced 3D Surgical Planning. The detailed 3D models generated by CBCT allow for advanced surgical planning, including virtual simulations of surgical procedures. This facilitates the design of custom cutting guides and implants, improving the accuracy and outcomes of surgeries. Also, we have the latest and most advanced version, which also captures 3D photo soft tissue and fuses it with your facial bone/skeleton. We often use these images with third-party software as well, such as Materialise and 3D systems programs for specific planning. 

In summary, the incorporation of CBCT technology in a surgical setting enhances the precision, safety, and efficiency of planning and executing complex facial, nasal and jaw procedures.

Dr. Steinbacher may wish to obtain a CBCT during your consultation – especially if potential treatments would include facial rejuvenation (facelift, necklift), jaw surgery (orthognathic), TMJ pain or surgery, Nasal surgery, sinus disease, and rhinoplasty, and facial bone modification (shaving, setbacks, contouring) or augmentation (with implants or bone), as well as facial feminization procedures, and cleft bone defects, assessments of developing or impacted teeth, and assessment for dental implants. Dr. Steinbacher sees patients every week from all over the United States, Canada, and the world, and certainly regionally every day from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. It is comforting to choose a doctor who invests in the latest technologies and modalities to ensure the best possible results! Call Dr. Derek Steinbacher’s office at (203) 453-6635 to request an upcoming consultation appointment and initial assessment using cone beam computed tomography. Our office is located at 5 Durham Road, Suite 1-8, and is open to new and established patients. You can also email us at info@dereksteinbacher.com or use the chatbot.