Comparison of Imaging Features of Intraosseous Jaw Lesions on Panoramic Radiographs and Cone Beam Computed Tomography

The objective of this study was to compare the imaging characteristics of intraosseous jaw lesions on panoramic radiographs (PAN) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A total of 216 intraosseous jaw lesions were analyzed according to localization, shape, size, internal structure, borders, associated nonerupted tooth, root resorption, presence of calcification, tooth displacement, affecting anatomic structures, cortical thinning, expansion, and destruction of bones. The definitive histologic diagnoses of lesions were not considered. A χ2 test, Cohen kappa coefficient, and simple kappa (κ) statistics were used in the statistical analysis. Most jaw lesions are commonly located in the posterior region, while the majority of lesions in the maxilla are found in the anterior region. CBCT was more accurate than PAN in the assessment of the border cortication, continuity of border cortication, expansion, cortical thinning, and destruction. PAN evaluation allowed the identification of the lesion's shape, internal contents, and multilocularity, affecting the IC/IAC and causing tooth displacement. The imaging features in the posterior and mandibular regions demonstrated greater agreement compared with those in the anterior and maxillary regions. This study's findings may guide imaging protocols for intraosseous jaw lesions. Larger studies incorporating histopathologic data are needed to confirm CBCT's advantages over PAN in diagnosing and planning treatment for bone lesions.