How useful is intraoperative cone beam computed tomography in maxillofacial surgery? An overview of the current literature

Abstract Intraoperative imaging is increasingly used by surgeons and has become an integral part of many surgical procedures. This study was performed to provide overview the current literature on intraoperative use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in maxillofacial surgery. A bibliographic search PubMed conducted March 2020, without time limitation, using "intraoperative imaging" AND "maxillofacial surgery" "cone tomography" as key words. Ninety-one articles were found; after complete reading, 16 met eligibility criteria analysed. The results showed that majority indications related trauma, particularly zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures. Final verification with CBCT before wound closure most common this device. However, innovative uses are expanding, such coupling mirror computational planning, even combined initial acquisition navigation. Immediate, fast, easy evaluation bone repositioning avoid need for further revision main advantage technique. Imaging quality comparable multi-slice tomography, but lower radiation exposure. Nevertheless, still not widely available centres, probably because its cost, perhaps everyone aware advantages versatility, which reported review.