Comparative evaluation of ultrasonography with cone-beam computed tomography for peri-implant bone loss analysis - A cadaveric goat mandible study.

Background: Early diagnosis of peri-implant bone loss is vital for the successful management of peri-implantitis. Among the various diagnostic tools available, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is the most commonly used method. However, CBCT has own limitations, which have led to the development of new diagnostic technologies. Of these, ultrasonography (US) appears to be the most promising. The aim of the current study was to compare and evaluate the efficacy of US with CBCT and direct measurement (DM) using a periodontal probe (PP) in assessing peri-implant bone defects created in a cadaveric goat mandible.

Materials and methods: Fifteen cadaveric goat mandibles were procured from a local slaughterhouse, and 15 endosseous implants (3.5 mm × 13 mm) were placed using a standard surgical protocol. Critical defects measuring 7 mm × 3 mm × 3 mm were created around the implants using a piezosurgical unit. These defects were evaluated using a PP for DM in Group I (GI), CBCT in Group II (GII), and ultrasonography (US) in Group III (GIII). The collected data were statistically analyzed.

Results: The mean height of the peri-implant osseous defect measured in GI, GII, and GIII was 6.05 ± 0.08 mm, 5.55 ± 0.40 mm, and 6.05 ± 0.30 mm, respectively. The measurements in GIII were comparable to those of GI and more precise than those of GII.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of the current study, US is more effective than CBCT and equally effective as DM using a PP in measuring critical peri-implant bone defects in cadaveric goat mandible. Therefore, ultrasonography can be considered a reliable diagnostic tool for routine implant follow-up.