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Cone-beam computed tomography accuracy in pulp chamber size evaluation: An ex vivo study
Marcello Maddalone1, Claudio Citterio1, Alberto Pellegatta1
1Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) accurately measures pulp chamber size in teeth compared to traditional methods. While effective for overall morphology, CBCT has limitations in visualizing small root canal branches.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Radiology
- Endodontics
Background:
- Accurate pulp chamber size assessment is crucial for endodontic procedures.
- Traditional methods for evaluating pulp chamber morphology have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) with the operative microscope for ex vivo pulp chamber size evaluation.
- To assess the suitability of CBCT for determining pulp chamber morphology.
Main Methods:
- Forty extracted teeth were sectioned horizontally at the cement-enamel junction.
- Pulp chambers were photographed using a digital camera and optical microscope.
- Teeth were scanned using CBCT, and digital images were analyzed.
Main Results:
- CBCT and operative microscope yielded similar results for both monoradicular and multiradicular teeth.
- A statistically significant correlation was found between the two methods (r=0.89 for monoradicular, r=0.94 for multiradicular).
- CBCT demonstrated limitations in detecting small anatomical variations within the root canal system.
Conclusions:
- Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a suitable imaging modality for evaluating pulp chamber morphology.
- CBCT's accuracy in assessing pulp chamber size is comparable to the operative microscope.
- CBCT has limitations in visualizing fine anatomical details of the root canal system.
