A New Age in Imaging: 3D CBCT

Cone Beam CT (CBCT) is a powerful imaging technology that uses a cone-shaped x-ray beam to produce highly detailed 3D images of the body. While standard X-rays provide a flat, two-dimensional view, our CBCT imaging provides a comprehensive, 3D reconstruction of your exact structural condition.

One of the main benefits of CBCT is its ability to provide very detailed and accurate images. This allows us to see things that may not be visible with other types of imaging, all while using a relatively low dose of radiation.

Why We Schedule Imaging Before Your First Adjustment

Because we refuse to guess with your health, we typically schedule your initial CBCT imaging a day or two prior to your first working visit. This critical gap gives Dr. Ben the necessary uninterrupted time to meticulously analyze your 3D structural blueprint, measure exact correction angles, and formulate a highly specific plan before any hands-on work begins.

Dr. Benjamin Franz reviewing CBCT 3D imaging

To See is to Know, and CBCT Gives Us New Sight

Upper cervical chiropractors specializing in neck issues can use CBCT to accurately diagnose and treat a patient's cervical spine issues. With a 3D view of the neck, CBCT can help identify misalignments and other problems that may not be visible with traditional imaging techniques.

CBCT enables chiropractors to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. By precisely targeting the affected areas, we can deliver more effective and efficient treatments, resulting in faster and longer-lasting relief.

One of Many Firsts

Innovation is at the heart of our practice. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Dr. Ben was the first chiropractor in South Carolina to acquire and utilize an on-site CBCT machine. Since early 2019, he has been using this technology to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of his treatments, ensuring patients receive the most advanced care available.

How CBCT Compares

If you are curious to know how CBCT compares to other imaging, here is an approximate comparison of the radiation dose received from different imaging modalities:

Cervical Cone Beam CT: approximately 50-200 microsieverts (µSv)
Cervical X-ray series (4 views): approximately 100-500 µSv
Lumbar X-ray series (3-5 views): approximately 150-500 µSv
Traditional CT: approximately 1000-2000 µSv for a single scan

*In general, cone beam CT and X-rays tend to have lower doses than traditional CT and PET scans.

Fun Comparisons

Additionally, here is a comparison of the doses of radiation received from typical everyday things:

Background radiation: averages around 20 millisieverts (mSv) per year.
Cosmic radiation during an international flight: approximately 50-100 µSv per flight depending on altitude and duration.
Eating a banana: contains a small amount of naturally-occurring potassium-40, which results in approximately 0.1 µSv of radiation per banana.

While all of these sources expose us to some level of risk, the doses are generally very low and unlikely to cause harm, especially when weighed against the vital diagnostic benefits they provide.