Prognosis of Carotid Atherosclerosis Based on CBCT Scan

Abstract

Objective: Carotid atherosclerosis has been used to measure the risk for heart disease and stroke. Nowadays, dentist is able to encounter asymptomatic atherosclerosis patient due to easier scan access, and more frequent dental checkup. The aim of this study is to evaluate if the number of sites affected by atherosclerosis and/or the amount of atherosclerosis in a specific area will increase, or a new area of calcification may occur in the follow-up scan. Materials and Methods: 50 patients with multiple scans were evaluated. Two parameters were used to assess the prognosis of the calcification: 1) Involvement of new anatomical location in the second scan. 2) Calcium scoring system by measuring Agatston score, volume score, and density score. Results: Out of 50 patients, we had 28 (56%) female patients and 22 (44%) males. The mean age was 71 ± 7.42. A slight increase in the number, size, and anatomical area of calcification was noted. There was a significant difference P= 0.0312 between the Agatston score on the left side and between the volume score P=0.0403 on the right side. The mean value of all scores on the second scan was higher than the first. Conclusion: Based on our result, we recommend patient referral to assess the future risk of developing cardiovascular disease, especially if the patient has cofactors and is without a regular medical checkup.