Use of Cone Beam Computerized Tomography in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Facial Trauma: A Review

The aim of this study was to analyze the available scientific evidence regarding the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the diagnosis, planning, and treatment of maxillofacial trauma. A review of the literature was conducted in the MEDLINE database without time restrictions, including prospective or retrospective primary studies performed in humans and published in English or Spanish. Reviews, meta-analyses, and case reports were excluded. Nine studies met the eligibility criteria, comprising a total of 302 patients. The results show that CBCT is predominantly used in the primary management of maxillofacial trauma, particularly in zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures, highlighting its intraoperative application for confirming fracture reduction and improving surgical planning. In conclusion, CBCT represents an effective and safe imaging modality for the comprehensive management of maxillofacial trauma, providing relevant diagnostic and therapeutic advantages with reduced exposure to ionizing radiation. KEYWORDS: Cone beam computed tomography, maxillofacial trauma, facial fractures, diagnostic imaging.