Technical factors in fractal analysis of periapical radiographs

Abstract

Objectives: Fractal analysis quantifies complex geometric structures by generating a fractal dimension, which can measure trabecular bone density. The use of non-standardized radiographic techniques potentially limits the reliability of fractal analysis. The objective of this study was to determine how variations in radiographic technique affect fractal dimension. Methods: Periapical radiographs of maxillary incisors taken on eight dry human skulls at varying angulation, tube potential and impulse settings were subjected to Fourier transform fractal analysis. Results: A significant (p0.05) on fractal dimension, with the standard deviation of the fractal dimension ranging from ±0.005 to ±0.062 at various radiographic machine settings. Conclusions: This study indicates that non-standardized periapical radiographs may provide a reliable method for determining fractal dimensions, which could be useful in analysing changes in alveolar bone density in various bone disorders.