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The Accuracy of Endodontic Length Measurement Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Comparison with Electronic Apex
Khoa Van Pham1, Ngan Kim Khuc2
1Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Iranian Endodontic Journal
|January 27, 2023
Summary
This study compared cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and two electronic apex locators (EALs) for measuring root canal length. While EALs showed higher accuracy than CBCT, no device perfectly matched the actual root canal length.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Imaging
- Diagnostic Technology
Background:
- Accurate root canal length determination is crucial for successful endodontic treatment.
- Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and electronic apex locators (EALs) are modern tools used for this purpose.
- Evaluating their comparative accuracy is essential for clinical decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the accuracy of CBCT and two EALs (ProPex Pixi, E-Pex Pro) in measuring the actual length of root canals.
- To compare the performance of these devices against the actual root canal length (AL).
Main Methods:
- An in vitro study using 184 root canals from 135 extracted teeth with curvatures less than 70 degrees.
- Measurements were taken using CBCT, ProPex Pixi, E-Pex Pro, and the AL.
- Statistical analysis included Fisher's Exact test and ICC indices with Bland-Altman plots.
Main Results:
- The E-Pex Pro (87.5%) and ProPex Pixi (82.6%) showed higher accuracy than CBCT (71.7%).
- All tested devices demonstrated statistically significant differences in accuracy (P<0.05).
Conclusions:
- Both EALs demonstrated high accuracy in measuring root canal length in vitro.
- However, no device achieved perfect agreement with the actual root canal length.
- Further research may be needed to improve the precision of these diagnostic tools in endodontics.
