How much radiation dose does Kinematic CBCT have?

Specific dose depends on size of the field of view combined with the settings of individual scanning machines. Research-published estimates for head/cervical CBCT scans are reported around 0.05-0.25 mSv (machine/setting-dependent). For reference, two 2-D neck X-rays have 0.14 mSv of exposure, where Keystone's CBCT machine has 0.13 mSv of exposure in a single scan that captures 575 individual images. For context, average natural background radiation while living on Earth is about 3.0 mSv/year.

How many scanning Kinematic CBCT positions will I need?

This is unique to each patient and their full history and exam. Most cases require only 2-4 additional positions, while more complex cases may require more.

How do you choose what Kinematic CBCT position to perform?

Based on your history, exam, functional testing, and symptom-provoking positions, a singular or multiple position(s) will be selected. You'll be coached into these positions with care and safety. After, the findings will be interpreted in context of the entire examination and history, and you'll get an understanding of what the Kinematic CBCT scans changed.

How long does a Kinematic CBCT scan take?

Kinematic CBCT scans take anywhere from 8 to 14 seconds to perform.

Do you perform Kinematic CBCT on everyone?

No. It's reserved for cases where there's a high likelihood that additional scans will help answer a clear clinical question while also changing the treatment planning thought process.

Take the "Neck Check"

Our Approach

Cone Beam CT

Cone Beam CT (often called CBCT) is an imaging technology that provides advanced views of the upper neck in three dimensions.

At Keystone, CBCT is used to answer specific structural questions, guide clinical decisions, and help understand the unique anatomy of each individual patient.

We are proud to be one of only a few private clinics in North Carolina to offer this technology.

Explore Kinematic CBCT

What is Conebeam CT?

Cone Beam CT (CBCT) is a form of three-dimensional X-ray imaging.

During the scan, the imaging system rotates around the head and neck of the seated patient, and captures what's called a volume of data (often comprised of over 500 individual images).
This volume can then be viewed slice-by slice in multiple angles at once or reconstructed into a
three-dimensional model.

True 3D

Built from your
unique history and examination.

Matching Position

Matches exact positioning that
flares symptoms

Specific Anatomy

Views your unique anatomy and physiology

CBCT is particularly useful for examining:

Bone anatomy

Joint surfaces

Joint orientation

Congenital variations

Degenerative changes

Previous bone injury or damage

Complex presentations affected by X-ray distortion

What Is The Difference Between Standard Imaging and Conebeam CT (CBCT)?

Standard imaging is a 2-D snapshot in a neutral position, most often done laying down.

While this is acceptable for medical pathology imaging, it doesn't paint an accurate picture for patients who feel worse upright and in specific positions that stress joints and stretch soft tissues.

STANDARD 2-D IMAGING

Laying down

Neutral position

2-D, single view

Generalized

CBCT 3-D IMAGING

Upright

Provoking positions

Full 3-D, multi-view

Patient-tailored

kCBCT allows for a full 360-degree upright image in symptom-provoking positions.

This advanced view can show case-unique anatomy and structural abnormalities that may explain why symptoms persist.

What Can CBCT Help Clarify?

Kinematic CBCT can add useful context when symptoms are position-dependent.

It's one piece of a larger diagnostic picture, being integrated with history, examination,
and functional testing.

Clarity

Better clarity on direction-specific symptom triggers compared to altered joint mechanics

Prognosis

More confident prognosis conversations: what's likely to change quickly, versus won't

Precision

A clearer picture for improved precision in treatment selection(s) and pacing

Support

A more specific map for supporting rehabilitation methods to improve stability

How We Evaluate Complex Cases

Frequently Asked Questions

01
Specific dose depends on size of the field of view combined with the settings of individual scanning machines. Research-published estimates for head/cervical CBCT scans are reported around 0.05-0.25 mSv (machine/setting-dependent). For reference, two 2-D neck X-rays have 0.14 mSv of exposure, where Keystone's CBCT machine has 0.13 mSv of exposure in a single scan that captures 575 individual images. For context, average natural background radiation while living on Earth is about 3.0 mSv/year.
02
03
04
05

What To Do Next

If you feel like your situation matches what you’ve read here, the next step isn’t to guess
whether this approach will work for you, it’s to have a focused conversation.

A Case Review Call with Dr. Bearder is where you:

Case Review Call

Review your story and what' you've already tried

Decide together whether the Keystone Approach is a good fit

Outline what an evaluation process looks like for your case

What to expect after your evaluation

If you're ready for that level of clarity, your next step is simple.

Consult with Dr. Bearder