Impact of Kilovoltage-Peak Setting on Implant Measurement Accuracy In vitro

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of Kilovoltage-peak (kVp) levels on the measurement accuracy of osteotomy sites in vitro.
Methods: A block, which has similar radiation absorption property as human alveolar bone, was prepared for this study. Twenty simulated osteotomies (length: 11.5 mm) were prepared perpendicular to the block, with aid of a verification jig. The block was then scanned using Kodak CareStream 9000 CBCT-machine at four different kVp exposure levels (i.e. 60, 70, 80 and 90kVp). Two other exposure parameters – mA/exposure time were kept based on manufacturer recommendations. CBCT volumes were viewed in Infinitt software, without adjusting brightness and contrast. Size of the window width and levels were also kept constant. Four osteotomies were omitted from the dataset due to imperfection of the block. Measurements of length of the 16 osteotomies were made by three blinded examiners. Mean values were recorded and compared for statistical significance using repeated analysis of variance test. Average length of osteotomies across the different examiners was also tested for inter-examiner reliability. Significant difference level was set at p<0.05.
Results: Descriptive statistics of the measured length of osteotomy sites at different kVp parameters and evaluation by different examiners showed no statistically significant differences (s. Tables).
Conclusions: kVp parameter during CBCT acquisition does not have a statistically significant impact on the accuracy of linear measurement of osteotomy sites.