AIIMS to get latest Cone Beam CT scan technology

New Delhi: Within the next few days, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here will undertake virtual surgery of a patient on a computer screen in 3D, using the Cone Beam CT Scan, before the actual surgery is performed in the operation theater.

Cone Beam CT Scan, procured recently by the Institure, is a state-of-the-art scanning technology through which doctors can create a virtual patient and perform advance tooth, jaw, neck, face and skull surgeries on a computer screen, so that actual surgery thereafter can be perfectly planned.

Three dimensional views of the skull, facial bones and soft tissues can be seen with minimal radiation through a Cone Beam scan.

Speaking about the technology, Prof OP Kharbanda, Chief of the Centre of Dental Education and Research at AIIMS, said, "Doctors will be able to see 3D images and future results will be predicated like a virtual surgery."

"This facility is very effective in educating the patient about the expectations from a treatment – be it an implant, orthodontic treatment or facial deformity," he added.

Prof Kharbanda further said that such technology is available in the private sectors, but is very expensive and an average person cannot afford it.

"AIIMS will provide these modalities at a minimum cost of Rs 200 and absolutely free of poor patients," he stated.

The senior doctor added that even though other hospitals have this facility, AIIMS has procured the latest equipment to get the best results.

Cone Beam CT scanning will especially help orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dental implantologists before they commence operating.

It will also help in treatment planning for dental implants, providing prosthesis for patients who have lost part of their face due to cancer or trauma and also for orthognatic surgery planning in patients having cranio-facial deformities, and cleft lip and palate.