Can ultrasonography be used to detect root perforation? An in vitro study
Öznur Sariyilmaz1, İrem Eren1, Evren Sariyilmaz1
1Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey.
Summary
Ultrasonography shows promise for detecting root canal perforations. This imaging technique provided measurements comparable to cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), suggesting its potential clinical utility.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Medical Imaging
- Endodontics
Background:
- Root canal perforations are a common complication in endodontic therapy.
- Accurate detection of perforations is crucial for successful treatment and prognosis.
- Conventional diagnostic methods may have limitations in sensitivity and specificity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasonography in detecting root canal perforations.
- To compare ultrasonographic measurements with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for perforation localization.
Main Methods:
- Canine and incisor roots were perforated buccally and embedded in gypsum to simulate bone resorption.
- Resorption cavities were filled with ultrasound gel for imaging.
- Ultrasonography was used to visualize the file tip within the canal up to the perforation site.
- Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was employed for precise 3D measurements and comparison.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography measurements (5.7–10.9 mm) closely correlated with actual distances (6–10.6 mm) and CBCT measurements (6–10.5 mm).
- No statistically significant differences were found between the measurement methods.
- The study demonstrated the feasibility of using ultrasonography to assess perforation depth.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonography is a promising, non-invasive tool for detecting and measuring root canal perforations.
- Further research is warranted to fully establish its clinical applicability in endodontics.
- This technique may offer an alternative or complementary diagnostic approach to CBCT.
