CBCT Imaging in St. Petersburg, FL
Cone Beam Computed Tomography provides a three-dimensional view of the cervical spine and craniocervical junction with a precision that conventional X-ray cannot replicate. Dr. Silver trained in upper cervical CBCT analysis under Dr. Pierce Sr. at the Pierce Clinic and went on to develop the analysis software and 3D-printed instruments used with the technique, tools now in use by practitioners in the field. That depth of expertise informs every scan he analyzes here.
Book a ConsultationThe atlas, the first cervical vertebra, can rotate, laterally flex, and translate in combinations that create a unique misalignment pattern for each patient. A conventional X-ray captures a single flat projection of that position in one plane. Overlapping bony structures, patient positioning variation, and the inherent limits of two-dimensional imaging mean that a flat X-ray can tell you approximately where the atlas is, but not precisely enough to calculate a specific correction vector from it.
CBCT uses a rotating X-ray source to capture a full three-dimensional image of the region. The result is a volumetric dataset that allows Dr. Silver to view the atlas and its relationship to the occiput, axis, and surrounding structures in any plane and from any angle. From this dataset he takes seven specific measurements, the same analysis protocol used in Advanced Orthogonal upper cervical care, that describe the atlas position in all three dimensions simultaneously. Those measurements are what allow the correction to be calculated rather than approximated.
The radiation dose is an important consideration. CBCT of the craniocervical region delivers an effective dose substantially lower than conventional CT scanning, typically in the range of 40 to 200 microsieverts depending on the scanner settings and field of view, compared with approximately 1,000 to 2,000 microsieverts for a conventional head CT scan. (Ludlow & Ivanovic, 2008, Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology.) The effective dose is generally comparable to a standard cervical X-ray series, though this varies by unit and protocol. Dr. Silver uses CBCT only when the three-dimensional precision it provides is clinically indicated; it is not part of a routine intake.
The scan itself takes approximately 15 minutes from positioning to completion. Dr. Silver analyzes the images personally and explains the findings to the patient before any correction is planned. The imaging data belongs to the patient and is shared fully and plainly: what was found, what it means neurologically, and how the planned correction addresses it.
The CBCT process at Neuroplasticity St. Pete follows a consistent three-stage sequence: scan, measure, and plan. Every correction that follows is built from the specific measurements of your anatomy, not from a generalized protocol.
The CBCT scan takes approximately 15 minutes and produces a complete three-dimensional image of your cervical spine and craniocervical junction. Radiation exposure is substantially lower than conventional CT scanning, making it appropriate for the diagnostic precision that upper cervical care requires. Dr. Silver uses CBCT only when the clinical presentation indicates it.
Using the Advanced Orthogonal analysis protocol, Dr. Silver takes seven specific measurements from the CBCT images that describe the atlas position in three dimensions: its angular displacement in each plane relative to the occiput and axis. These measurements are then used to calculate the exact angle, direction, and force of the instrument-assisted correction required to restore the atlas to its neutral position. Every correction is planned from your specific anatomy.
Dr. Silver reviews the analysis findings with you before any correction is made. You will see exactly what was measured, understand what the misalignment means for your nervous system, and know what the planned correction is intended to accomplish. The imaging data belongs to you and the explanation is complete.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography uses a rotating X-ray source to capture a three-dimensional image of the region being scanned. A conventional X-ray produces a single flat, two-dimensional projection of a three-dimensional structure. Bones overlap, and spatial relationships are approximated. CBCT captures the exact three-dimensional position of each bone, allowing precise angular measurements across all planes simultaneously. For upper cervical care, this means Dr. Silver can measure the exact degree, direction, and plane of atlas misalignment rather than estimating it from a flat image.
CBCT radiation exposure is substantially lower than conventional CT scanning. For the craniocervical region, the effective dose typically falls in the range of 40 to 200 microsieverts depending on scanner settings and field of view, compared with approximately 1,000 to 2,000 microsieverts for a conventional head CT scan. The effective dose is generally comparable to a standard cervical X-ray series, though this varies by unit and protocol. (Ludlow & Ivanovic, 2008.) Dr. Silver uses CBCT only when its three-dimensional precision is clinically necessary, not as a routine screening tool.
The atlas has multiple degrees of freedom. It can rotate, laterally flex, and translate in combinations unique to each patient. A flat X-ray approximates that position in one plane. CBCT captures the true three-dimensional position across all planes simultaneously. The Advanced Orthogonal technique used by Dr. Silver takes seven specific measurements from the CBCT scan and calculates the exact correction vector from them. Without three-dimensional imaging, that vector must be estimated; with it, it is derived from the specific anatomy of each patient.
No. CBCT is used to establish baseline atlas position and calculate the initial correction vector. After the correction is made, Dr. Silver monitors alignment through neurological examination findings such as postural changes, leg length, muscle tone, and brainstem reflex indicators that signal whether the atlas has shifted. A repeat scan is obtained only when those findings suggest the atlas has moved in a way that requires re-analysis. The goal is to use imaging when it is clinically indicated, not on a fixed schedule.
Dr. Silver takes seven specific measurements from the CBCT images as part of the Advanced Orthogonal analysis protocol. These describe the atlas position in three dimensions: its displacement in anterior-posterior tilt, lateral flexion, and rotation relative to the occiput and axis. The measurements are used to calculate the exact angle, plane, and force of the instrument-assisted correction needed to restore the atlas to its neutral position. The correction is therefore planned from the specific anatomy of that patient rather than from a standardized adjustment.
Dr. Silver performs the analysis personally. He trained in upper cervical CBCT analysis during his five years at the Pierce Clinic of Chiropractic under Dr. Pierce Sr., the founder of the Advanced Orthogonal Institute, and subsequently served as a board member and technique instructor there. He also developed the analysis software and 3D-printed instruments used with the technique, tools now used by practitioners in the field. Every measurement, calculation, and correction at Neuroplasticity St. Pete is his own work, reviewed and explained to the patient before anything is treated.
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CBCT imaging is recommended as part of the upper cervical assessment when clinical findings indicate it. Book a consultation in St. Petersburg and Dr. Silver will determine whether imaging is appropriate for your case before scheduling it.
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