CBCT Export Guide
Proper CBCT acquisition and DICOM export is critical for accurate surgical guide fabrication. This guide covers optimal scan parameters including voxel size selection, patient positioning, FOV requirements, and export protocols. Following these standards ensures your surgical planning data transfers correctly for precise guide design.
Export Checklist
- DICOM 3.0 format standard
- 0.2mm or smaller voxel size
- Full arch FOV coverage
- Export all slices completely
- Patient positioned properly
- Motion artifact free
- Metal scatter minimized
- Adequate contrast/brightness
- Secure file transfer
- Verify complete upload
Export Protocol
Patient Positioning
Position patient with occlusal plane parallel to floor, chin up, and head stabilized to prevent movement artifacts.
Scan Parameters
Select smallest voxel size available (≤0.2mm), appropriate FOV for full arch, and sufficient mA for adequate contrast.
Quality Check
Review scan for motion artifacts, metal scatter, and complete arch coverage before patient dismissal.
DICOM Export
Export complete dataset in DICOM 3.0 format to USB drive or network location. Include all slices and metadata.
File Transfer
Upload DICOM folder to lab portal or secure file transfer. Verify all files transferred successfully.
FAQs
What voxel size should I use for surgical guide planning?
Optimal voxel size is 0.2mm or smaller for implant planning. Larger voxels (0.3-0.4mm) may be acceptable for initial assessment but reduce guide accuracy.
Should I export all DICOM slices or selected ones?
Always export the complete DICOM dataset including all axial slices. Partial exports may result in incomplete 3D reconstruction and planning errors.
How do I know if my CBCT export was successful?
Verify export by checking file count matches slice count, file sizes are consistent, and files can be opened in your planning software showing complete anatomy.