Photon-counting detector computed tomography meets orthopantomography: a cinematic rendering solution for superior structural visualization.

Abstract

This technical note introduces an innovative technique for overlaying photorealistic three-dimensional (3D) visualization cinematic renderings of ultra-high-resolution photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) scans onto conventional orthopantomography (OPG) images, enhancing visualization and aiding in the detection of subsurface structures and incidental findings. OPG is commonly used to assess dentomaxillofacial conditions, generating a summation image on a two-dimensional (2D) plane through a circular tomographic path. While useful for the initial evaluation, OPG has limitations, such as overlapping structures and restricted soft tissue visualization. More detailed analysis often requires 3D imaging modalities like cone beam computed tomography or conventional computed tomography. Recently introduced PCD-CT provides high-resolution images with lower noise, enhanced soft tissue contrast, and reduced artefacts. A novel technique of overlaying a photorealistic 3D cinematic rendering of a PCD-CT scan onto a conventional 2D OPG image of the same patient is introduced that enhances OPG by revealing subsurface structures such as blood vessels and improves understanding of the 3D anatomy. By associating the 3D anatomy with this 2D image, the technique enhances the clinician's understanding of three-dimensionality and may potentially aid in the detection of incidental findings in OPGs, such as calcifications in the angle of the jaw.