Diagnostic Accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography Using Different Voxel Sizes in Detection of Vertical Root Fractures of Teeth With Metallic Posts.

Abstract

Background: Conventional radiographs are not an efficient diagnostic method to detect vertical root fracture. CBCT overcomes the limitations of conventional radiography in the detection of VRF. In CBCT, metallic structures can cause artifacts in the images, Since most teeth suspected to have vertical root fractures are endodontically treated and have a metallic post in the root canal, fracture detection may pose a challenge. Aim: This study aimed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography using different voxels in detection of vertical root fractures of teeth with metallic posts. Methodology: 120 Single rooted extracted human teeth were obtained and endodonticaly treated then placed in an acrylic block and metallic posts were inserted.After post insertion the teeth roots were divided into 2 groups one with Induced vertical root fractures and the other having intact roots with the posts inserted. Then each tooth was coded and imaged two times using CBCT with different voxel sizes. Results: Changing the voxel did not improve the diagnostic accuracy. Conclusion: In case of presence of metallic posts, CBCT with standard or high resolution can be used to detect vertical root fractures.