Welcome to the 3D Diagnostics Centre for Digital Volume Tomography in Heidelberg
Digital Volume Tomography (DVT) is an ultra-modern three-dimensional tomography procedure based on X-rays.
Similar to computed tomography (CT), DVT enables the generation of high-resolution sectional images in all spatial planes as well as the calculation of three-dimensional views.
In addition, this procedure is characterized by a lower radiation dose compared to computed tomography.
A technique that enables an ENT doctor, oral surgeon or dentist, for example, to observe the finest anatomical structures in the throat and head area such as middle and inner ear, paranasal sinuses, eye sockets, base of the skull, oral and tooth structures as well as neural pathways in three-dimensional form in order to precisely plan and implement the treatment. Besides making the potential operation gentler, safer and more exact, its duration can even be shortened.
Another very important point for patients is that the X-rays are significantly reduced compared to a conventional CT.
DVT technology delivers top-quality, ultra-fine cross sections in just approx. 40 seconds. We work with the market-leading MORITA 3D Accuitomo 170.
Get in touch with us!
We look forward to welcoming you in person at our DVT Diagnostics Centre.
Indication
- Diagnosis of the paranasal sinuses (acute / chronic inflammations, to plan surgery)
- Diagnosis of the inner bony structure of the nose (nasal breathing hindrance, snoring)
- Diagnosis in the case of snoring, obstructive sleep apnoea
- Diagnosis of the middle ear (e.g. deformities, conductive hearing loss, chronic inflammations)
- Diagnosis of the inner ear (e.g. dizziness, clarification of unclear hearing difficulties)
- Diagnosis of injuries to bones of the facial skeleton (e.g. nasal bone fracture, mid-facial fracture)
- Clarification of headaches (even possible in children due to low radiation exposure)
- Differentiation between ENT and dental issue
- Clarification of tooth and tooth root status
- Planning assistance before tooth implant
- jaw bone disorders
- if foreign bodies are found in the jaw
- if there are deformities in the jaw
Procedure
The test is very easy and pleasant. As soon as the patient is seated and the headrest adjusted, it can start.
Similar to computer tomography, in DVT, an X-ray tube rotates around the patient. However, since DVT is specially designed for head testing, it uses smaller measurement systems and a beam direction which is fully concentrated on the area to be diagnostically assessed (cone beam).
This avoids the patient having to lie inside a tube with very little space and a lot of noise. The test actually takes place in a seated position; lasts only around two minutes and involves no noise.
This “open”, quiet test and its short duration are especially convenient for the testing of children or patients with anxiety or sensitivity to noise.
The geometric accuracy of the volume imaging data generated ensures a correct anatomical ratio in which dimensionally accurate measurement is possible. The data records of the DVT image are produced on DVD and are available to the doctor in this format. An exact image of the desired location may be shown on a screen and observed from all viewing angles.
Benefits
- Radiation exposure reduced by 50% compared to conventional CT recordings
- Outstanding anatomical resolution (up to 0.08 mm isotope voxel): More exact representation of structures in the mouth, jaw and facial area
- Excellent detail accuracy
- Very short recording times with optimal image quality
- Fewer metal artefacts due to crowns and bridges (metal artefacts usually hamper the diagnosis)
- The patient sits upright and does not need to lie inside a tube (no claustrophobia)
- Potential surgery may be precisely planned in advance and risks are reduced
- Incidental findings which are not discovered in standard X-ray images
- The geometric accuracy of the volume imaging data generated ensures a correct anatomical ratio in which dimensionally accurate measurement and surgery are possible
Costs
Patients who have private insurance are usually refunded for the costs of a DVT without a problem.
The public health insurers on the other hand do not reimburse the costs of this modern diagnostic procedure at present.
Patients with public health insurance are therefore offered a DVT recording as a self-paying service.
Team
Only the best for you!
We do not want to specialise in small sub-areas of diagnostics. We want to provide you, our patient, with tailor-made, individual solutions for your problems from a single source. Our skills in all areas of diagnostics allow us to offer you various treatment options.
By talking to you, we find out what is “best” for you.
Rest assured that we are worthy of your trust.
