Implementation of a modified quality assurance protocol for CBCT machines within UT health San Antonio School of Dentistry

Objectives: To implement the quality control assurance protocol (including the re-establishment of baseline data from 2016) to monitor the stability of image quality of CBCT machines located within the UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. Methods and materials: Five CBCT machines ProMax 3D Mid (R) (Planmeca Oy, Helsinki, Finland), 3D Accuitomo XYZ Slice View Tomograph (R) (Model MCT-1, Type EX-1F8; Fushimi-ku, Kyoto: J. Morita Mfg. Corp), Veraviewepocs 3D (Model R100; Fushimi-ku, Kyoto: J. Morita Mfg. Corp), PreXion3D Excelsior (R) (PreXion, San Mateo, CA), and i-CAT FLX Series (R) (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA) were tested for Artifact, Contrast-to-Noise Ratio, Noise, Spatial Resolution, and Contrast Resolution using a custom insert configuration in the SEDENTEXCT IQ phantom. Results: Four-scan benchmark mean values for Artifact, Contrast-to-Noise, Noise, Spatial Resolution, and Contrast Resolution were determined for the five machines tested with associated alert and action level thresholds calculated. Conclusion: This newly developed QA protocol established image quality baseline values. Recommended tests, frequency, and actions levels have been updated and control charts established for future trend analysis to enable proper implementation of a QA protocol monitoring CBCT machines at UT health San Antonio.