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ePaper created 2017-11-28, 08:58:45 | version 1.38.0
30 exhibitors Greater New York Dental Meeting — Nov. 28, 2017 Ensuring proper patient positioning during X-rays By Midmark Staff n In dental panoramic radio- graphy, proper patient positioning is vital to receiving the high-quality, accurate diagnostic images needed to provide optimal dental care to patients. The focal trough of the X-ray is rela- tively narrow, and if the patient is not properly positioned, the structures outside the focal trough might not be projected in focus. For instance, if the chin is tipped too high or the patient’s tongue is not positioned against the palate, the image could be deemed unacceptable. In certain cases, the poor quality of the image could even result in patient complaints or legal action against the practice. A 2012 study showed just how relatively common positioning errors actually occur.1 The study looked at 1,782 panoramic radiographs and found that 89 percent contained some form of positioning error. While 64 percent of the images met the criteria for being “diagnostically acceptable,” nearly a quarter (24.9 percent) were categorized “unacceptable.” The most common errors observed were failure to position the tongue against palate (55.7 percent), slumped position (35 percent), patient posi- tioned backward (30 percent) and patient positioned forward (18.3 per- cent). The study concluded that the quality of panoramic radiographs could be improved by careful atten- tion to patient positioning. Most panoramic X-ray manufac- turers incorporate various tools and alignment devices that help dental staff properly position their patient. These can include everything from simple patient-support devices like chin rests and forehead supports to technologies such as laser guides and optical cameras that help position the patient along the major axes. Some systems also have an opera- tor panel that displays a preview of the captured image so it can be assessed prior to the patient being released. Regardless of the sophisticated technology and tools available, it is unfortunately not possible for clini- cians to fully control patient move- ment. That’s why it’s important that patients understand and follow basic instructions, such as biting on a bite stick, placing the tongue against the palate and refraining from swallow- ing and movement during the exam. Many of the issues that lead to Here in New York For more information on the Midmark Progeny Vantage Digital Panoramic System and the VantageTrust sup- port and training service, stop by the Midmark booth, No. 4609. training support to a new level. The system’s VantageTouch operator panel features an user interface that displays sample exam images and enables users to access and view embedded training videos for train- ing at point of use. Midmark’s VantageTrust ongoing remote support and training service goes beyond the one-time, in-office training session to offer dentists and staff feedback on patient position- ing in order to deliver the highest quality image possible. With the ser- vice, all panoramic images acquired with Midmark’s Vantage Panoramic System are sent securely over the practice’s Internet connection to the VantageTrust server for review. No patient information is collected or shared. Midmark employs a combination of software and experienced person- nel to review the images and provide feedback in the form of a report that details any patient positioning issues or visible artifacts, as well as tips for improving the image capture. To access the images and reports, prac- tices simply log into the VantageTrust website. Dentists can also access additional training videos and trend data, such as the number of images the practice sends through the service and the average number of images per day. VantageTrust is available as a 60-day free trial with the purchase of a Vantage Digital Panoramic System. Existing customers who have not yet accessed their free trial are still eligi- ble to register. After the trial period, the service can be extended for a nominal fee. Contact your Midmark representa- tive to learn how you can get the most out of your Vantage panoramic unit and start receiving the high-quality, accurate diagnostic images you need to provide the best care to your patients. Reference 1. Dhillon M, Raju S, Verma S, Tomar D, Mohan R, Lakhanpal M, Krishnamoor- thy B. Positioning errors and quality assessment in panoramic radiography. Imaging Science in Dentistry (2012) 42: 207-12. 5 The Modmark Progeny Vantage Dogotal Panoramoc System. (Photo/Provoded by Modmark) improper patient positioning can be mitigated with in-house staff train- ing on the correct use of the system’s positioning tools and proper patient instruction. However, given the pace of busy dental practices, it is often dif- ficult to schedule this type of training for the whole team. Also, staff turno- ver or reorganization of duties may require additional training sessions. As a result, all manufacturers provide user guides that detail the proper use of the panoramic X-ray sys- tem, as well as online instructional videos and self-training modules for dental staff. In-office training is also an option that is provided by many system manufacturers. The Midmark Progeny Vantage® takes Digital Panoramic System