Ultrasonography for diagnosis of peri-implant diseases and conditions: a detailed scanning protocol and case demonstration

Ultrasonography has shown its promising diagnostic value in dental implant imaging research in the three treatment phases, namely, planning, intraoperative, and postoperative phase. With increasing awareness of peri-implant diseases and a lack of an efficient diagnostic method, the aim is to propose ultrasound imaging as a potential solution by providing a detailed scanning protocol and case demonstration. Ultrasound device specification and the setup for optimizing peri-implant tissue imaging was described. Two useful imaging modes, viz. B-mode and color flow, were introduced. Important anatomical structures for accurate diagnosis of peri-implant diseases were illustrated. Finally, a detailed scanning sequence was proposed. Ultrasound images were acquired on live humans to exemplify the four peri-implant diseases and conditions, endorsed by the 2017 World Workshop organized by the American Academy of Periodontology and the European Federation of Periodontology. Ultrasound can provide not only cross-sectional anatomical images but also functional images (color flow images) that may be useful for evaluating the degree of peri-implant tissue inflammation. High-frequency ultrasonography could be another cross-sectional imaging modality in adjunct to radiographs for diagnosing imminent peri-implant diseases and conditions that negatively influence quality of life of millions of patients with implants. This case study provides a framework for future related research work and clinical scanning guidelines.