Congress:
ECR25
Poster Number:
C-19806
Type:
Poster: EPOS Radiologist (educational)
Authorblock:
O. Meadows, A. Leontaritis, M. Persad, A. Weller, L. A. Ratnam; London/UK
Disclosures:
Olutobi Meadows:
Nothing to disclose
Alexandros Leontaritis:
Nothing to disclose
Melissa Persad:
Nothing to disclose
Alex Weller:
Nothing to disclose
Lakshmi A Ratnam:
Nothing to disclose
Keywords:
Head and neck, Salivary glands, Cone beam CT, Fluoroscopy, MR, Comparative studies, Diagnostic procedure, Sialography, Calcifications / Calculi, Dilatation, Dosimetric comparison
Each imaging modality has distinct advantages and limitations:
- Fluoroscopic sialography remains widely considered the gold standard for real-time evaluation of salivary ductal systems, particularly for diagnosing obstructions and sialolithiasis. However, its invasive nature and ionising radiation exposure are notable drawbacks.
- CBCT sialography reduces radiation exposure compared to fluoroscopy while offering enhanced spatial resolution and 3D imaging. It may serve as an alternative in cases where dynamic imaging or immediate therapeutic intervention is not required.
- MRI is the modality of choice for evaluating tumours, inflammation, and glandular anatomy due to its superior soft tissue contrast and non-ionising nature. However, its lower sensitivity in detecting small sialoliths and higher cost are limitations.
The choice of imaging should be guided by clinical indications, patient factors, and the need for detailed anatomical visualisation. The reduced radiation dose and 3D capabilities of CBCT suggest that it may replace fluoroscopy in certain diagnostic contexts.