Retrospective study: Evaluating the positioning errors in digital panoramic radiographs

Abstract

To produce a panoramic cardiograph with a constant image quality common errors must be kept to a minimum. This study is conducted with an objective to analyse the most prevalent positioning and technical errors in panoramic radiographs.300 Orthopantomograms (OPGs) were taken from January 2020 to December 2021 in the Maxillofacial Imaging centre and they were assessed by three maxillofacial radiologists for analysing positional errors.Using the OHP sheet, all radiographs were viewed on a computer monitor to demarcate the ‘’6’’ Zones. Results showed that around 52 radiographs were error free (17.3%) and 248 radiographs had errors (82.6%). The radiographs having single positional error were 205 (82.66%). The radiographs having two positional errors were 35 (14.1%). The radiographs having three positional errors were 8 (3.2%).The outcome of analysis reveals that percentage of positioning errors in panoramic radiographs is fairly high whichreduce its diagnostic value. The Technicians are made aware of the errors and are instructed to double check the patient’s position before taking radiographs.