OBJECTIVES: To explore the possible correlation between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density in the mandible. METHODS: Bone mineral density of the trabecular bone was obtained by quantitative computed tomography of 22 edentulous anterior and posterior sections of nine mandibles obtained at autopsy. A computer-based image analysis system was used for morphometric measurements to derive trabecular bone volume from contact radiographs. RESULTS: A significant correlation was found between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density. The trabecular bone volume varied significantly between and within mandibles. CONCLUSION: The high correlation between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density means that the use of quantitative computed tomography prior to implant treatment is a valid procedure.
OBJECTIVES: To explore the possible correlation between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density in the mandible. METHODS: Bone mineral density of the trabecular bone was obtained by quantitative computed tomography of 22 edentulous anterior and posterior sections of nine mandibles obtained at autopsy. A computer-based image analysis system was used for morphometric measurements to derive trabecular bone volume from contact radiographs. RESULTS: A significant correlation was found between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density. The trabecular bone volume varied significantly between and within mandibles. CONCLUSION: The high correlation between trabecular bone volume and bone mineral density means that the use of quantitative computed tomography prior to implant treatment is a valid procedure.