Diagnostic Accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography with Different Voxel Sizes versus

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Identification of the root canal/s is crucial for success of endodontic treatment. The aim of this study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) different voxel sizes to identify mesiobuccal (MB2) canals in maxillary molars, and to know which one that gives the best image resolution with the least patient radiation exposure. Methodology: The teeth enrolled in this diagnostic study were 17 Extracted human upper 1st and 2nd permanent molars with complete root formation. All molars were scanned by CBCT using 0.3mm; 0.2mm (61x78 mm FOV) and 0.125mm (50x50 mm FOV) voxel sizes and the mesiobuccal (MB) canals were counted in the scanned images in each root by three different experience observers. Cone beam computed tomography images were acquired with Scanora 3Dx machine (Sorredex- Finland), at 90 kVp and 16 mA. Tooth sectioning was selected as reference standard method based on that it is the best method that provides accurate information about the number of root canals in a molar tooth. Results: No Significant difference was found regarding the detection of MB2 canals among CBCT 0.3, 0.2 and 0.125 different voxel sizes versus root sectioning. Conclusion: Neither the utilized voxel measurements nor the experienced radiologists can affect the detection of MB2 canal; also the definition of multiple canals by CBCT at any level does not necessarily means canals that are accessible clinically.