Cephalometric Radiograph
Pronunciation: sef-uh-loh-MET-rik RAY-dee-oh-graf
A standardized lateral or posteroanterior extraoral X-ray of the skull used primarily in orthodontic and orthognathic surgery planning to analyze skeletal and dental relationships.
Full Definition
A cephalometric radiograph, commonly called a 'ceph' in clinical settings, is a precisely standardized extraoral radiograph taken at a fixed distance between the X-ray source and the patient's head, which is positioned using a cephalometer. It is most frequently taken in the lateral projection to allow tracing and measurement of skeletal landmarks (cephalometric analysis). Editors should note that 'cephalometric' is the adjective form and 'cephalometry' is the noun referring to the measurement process. The term should not be abbreviated to 'ceph' in formal radiological reports without prior definition. It must not be confused with an orthopantomogram, which provides a different anatomical view.
Usage
Usage note: Do not abbreviate to 'ceph' in formal documentation without first spelling out the full term. Distinguish from an OPG, which shows the dentition panoramically rather than providing skeletal landmark data.
In Context
- "A lateral cephalometric radiograph was taken to evaluate the anteroposterior relationship of the maxilla and mandible prior to orthodontic treatment." — Orthodontic assessment report
- "The cephalometric radiograph demonstrated a skeletal Class III relationship with a reduced Frankfort-mandibular plane angle." — Orthognathic surgery referral