Analysis of Bone Quality on Panoramic Radiograph in Osteoporosis Research by Fractal Dimension

Abstract

Objective: To Assess the correlation between different quality analysis parameters of trabecular pattern in digital panoramic radiographies and relations with forearm bone mass density (BMD) performed by DXA. Methods: The study was developed using panoramic and peripheral bone densitometry dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of 68 patients, 9 males and 59 females (19 - 73 years old). In the panoramic radiographs, evaluation of the trabecular bone morphology through assessment of fractal dimension (FD), connectivity (C) and total number of “bright” pixels (ET) was performed. In DXA, the exam determines the bone mineral density of the forearm to identify who has a high risk of osteoporosis. Statistics analyzed the relationship of these exams and the contribution of dental radiographs in detecting patients at risk for osteoporosis. Results: The average age of subjects was 43.85. In the analysis of trabecular pattern, a significant correlation between the FD, ET and C factors in level of 5% (Pearson correlation test) was found. Correlation tests showed no significant correlation between DF and BMD. Conclusions: The analysis showed correlations with each other, detecting alterations in the trabecular pattern. It cannot be related to BMD with FD but should be taken into account that examining the bone or trabecular alveolar process, when, for example, diagnostic analysis of pre-implant bone quality, is required.