Implementation of a Digital Radiographic Image Acquisition and Retrieval System (DRIARS) using a wireless network in an orthodontic department.

Aim: The objective of this report is to describe the implementation and pilot-test of an integrated wireless local area network (WLAN) system that incorporated the Planmeca Promax CCD based digital panoramic/cephalometric x-ray system, Dolphin(R) software, and multiple remote user units to increase the efficiency of data management by the residents in the Department of Orthodontics.

Background: The Department of Orthodontics of the New Jersey Dental School (NJDS) acquired the Dolphin cephalometric analysis software and the Planmeca Promax digital panoramic/cephalometric x-ray units on separate occasions. Dolphin has been in use for many years at this institution, the current version being 10, and the Promax was acquired in the Fall of 2002.

Hereditary cranium bifidum persisting as enlarged parietal foramina (Catlin marks) on cephalometric radiographs.

Cranium bifidum occultum is a rare skull ossification disorder referred to as the Catlin mark characterized by ossification defects in the parietal bones. Evidence suggests that this condition has a strong genetic heterogenicity. It is believed that, as calvarial growth continues, ossification in parietal bones fills these defects, and they can remain as parietal foramina on either side of the sagittal suture.

Use of a wireless local area network in an orthodontic clinic.

Radiographic images and other patient records, including medical histories, demographics, and health insurance information, can now be stored digitally and accessed via patient management programs. However, digital image acquisition and diagnosis and treatment planning are independent tasks, and each is time consuming, especially when performed at different computer workstations. Networking or linking the computers in an office enhances access to imaging and treatment planning tools.

Correction of posterior crossbites: diagnosis and treatment.

The correction of posterior crossbites is more complex than it appears. To develop an appropriate treatment plan, it is first necessary to determine if: (1) there is a functional jaw shift on closing; (2) the crossbite is unilateral or bilateral; (3) it is dental, skeletal, or a combination of both; and (4) it is related only to the maxilla or both jaws. Once the problem's apparent cause has been defined, it is then necessary to select the appropriate modality of treatment, which, in the maxilla, is: (1) usually a removable acrylic-based appliance with 1 or more transverse screws; or (2) a fixed Hyrax-type or Hass-type appliance.