The aim of the present study was to comparatively evaluate the accuracy of the results obtained by manual and computer-assisted tracing of a group of cephalometric radiographs.
Methods. A group of 60 initial cephalometric radiographs from 60 orthodontic patients, obtained on the same radiological device, was selected. The cephalometric radiographs were traced and measured using the classical (manual) method and the Orthalis cephalometric software, by the same examiner, using the parameters of Steiner and Tweed analysis.
Results. With a few exceptions, the computer-assisted tracing technique gave results with an accuracy similar to that of the manual, clinically acceptable technique.
Conclusions. The cephalometric tracing sofware represents a useful tool in both orthodontic diagnosis and treatment processes.