The iCAT is a computerised 3-D digital imaging system that gives high quality images of your entire head and neck using a very low radiation dose.  No longer does Dr. Heit have to send her patients to 2 other clinics to get the x-rays she needs for a thorough examination.  This saves time, hassle, cost and radiation.

iCAT imaging information is used in software so Dr. Heit can virtually place your implant in the computer prior to the actual surgery.  A surgical stent is made that is accurate to 0.1mm of the final result making the surgical procedure safer, faster and more conservative.  Ideal placement of the implant is obtained when the 3-D image can be rotated 360 degrees to assess the result before the surgery is done. 

The iCAT is also excellent for clear images of the temporalmandibular joints-the most complex joint in the body.  Many peope suffer from temporomandibular disorder caused from these joints.   Many more people suffer from headaches, neckaches, ringing in the ears, face pain, tingling in the fingertips and don't realize they have tempormandibular disorder.  The iCAT is a valuable tool to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition that  can elude many professionals.

Other information from the iCAT includes almost anything that can be seen on a x-ray in the head and neck.  Dr. Heit assesses jaw position, growth and development, bony proportions, chronic stresses and conditions can that show up on x-ray and anything unexpected or unusual that would prompt further investigation in a particular area.  This information is important because it can be the cause of current symptoms or a future predictor of symptoms that may affect you at some point in your life.