Detection of artificially induced vertical root fractures of different widths by cone beam computed tomography in vitro and in vivo

• Published in: International endodontic journal 2016-10, Vol.49 (10), p.980-989
• Main Authors: Makeeva, I. M., Byakova, S. F., Novozhilova, N. E., Adzhieva, E. K., Golubeva, G. I., Grachev, V. I., Kasatkina, I. V.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case-Control Studies; Cone-Beam Computed Tomography; Dentistry; diagnosis; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Sensitivity and Specificity; Tooth Fractures - diagnostic imaging; Tooth Fractures - pathology; Tooth Root - diagnostic imaging; Tooth Root - injuries; vertical root fracture
• ISSN: 0143-2885; 1365-2591
• DOI: 10.1111/iej.12549

Aims To compare the diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the detection of artificially induced vertical root fractures (VRFs) of different widths in vitro and in vivo. Methodology Vertical root fractures were induced in 25 extracted nonendodontically treated single‐rooted human teeth (maxillary first premolars, maxillary canines and mandibular incisors). Twenty teeth without VRFs served as a control group. CBCT scanning (3D Accuitomo 170) was performed in vitro and in vivo. For the in vivo scanning, teeth were autoclaved, embedded into bite plates, placed in sterile plastic bags and then inserted into the mouths of volunteers. Teeth with VRFs were sectioned into axial slices and examined using a stereomicroscope to measure the widths of the VRFs. Five observers assessed the presence of VRFs using axial CBCT. Values for sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and interexaminer agreement were calculated. Results The accuracy, specificity and sensitivity of CBCT were significantly higher in vitro than in vivo for VRFs with widths 50–150 μm (P