Experimental comparative study of Two-dimensional and Three-dimensional CT reconstruction in detecting maxillofacial fractures at Mzuzu Central Hospital, Malawi

Abstract

Objective
The aim of this study is to compare the diagnostic value of two-dimensional (2D) CT and three-dimensional (3D) CT reconstruction techniques in detecting maxillofacial fractures in patients at Mzuzu Central Hospital (MCH).
Methods
67 maxillofacial trauma patients admitted to Mzuzu Central Hospital from Jan to Sep 2024 underwent multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT) scanning. Images were post-processed using 2D and 3D reconstruction techniques. Clinical and radiological data were collected from the patients, and a comparative analysis of the results from the two reconstruction techniques was performed.
Results
In this study, 52 cases of maxillofacial fractures with a total of 83 fractures were diagnosed by 2D CT reconstruction technology, with a fracture detection rate of 77.61% (52/67). Using 3D CT reconstruction technology, 54 cases of maxillofacial fractures with a total of 91 fractures were diagnosed, and the fracture detection rate was 80.60% (54/67). Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in the detection rate of maxillofacial fractures between 2D CT and 3D CT reconstruction (χ² = 35.945, P = 0.687). In the diagnosis of zygomatic fractures, nasal fractures, and upper and lower jaw fractures, 3D CT reconstruction images have obvious advantages over 2D CT in displaying fracture displacement and fracture line course. However, for the display of comminuted fractures combined with sphenoid and ethmoid fractures, the cross-sectional images of 2D CT show higher superiority.
Conclusion
2D CT reconstruction is a basic diagnostic tool for maxillofacial fractures. 3D reconstruction, with high detection and multi-angle visualization, offers valuable imaging for clinical decision-making, aiding in surgery planning. A combined approach, leveraging the strengths of both modalities, is pivotal for comprehensive assessment and management of maxillofacial trauma.