(PO48) Correlating 2-D Radiographic Surface Area and Micro-CT Volume in Anterior Root Canals

Abstract: Non-surgical root canal treatment (NSRCT) success relies on a thorough understanding of root canal systems and is commonly determined with conventional two-dimensional (2D) radiographs. However, 2D radiographs have limitations in discerning anatomy. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between root canal surface areas in 2D radiographs and volumes measured in micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scans. Forty-eight fully erupted, non-carious human upper anterior teeth were used for the study. The crowns were removed, and root canals were cleaned and shaped to 16 mm using ProTaper Ultimate size 30/F3 files (Dentsply-Sirona). Radiographs were taken from the facial view, and the surface area of the canals was measured using ImageJ software. Each tooth was scanned and reconstructed with micro-CT at a 20 µm voxel size, 130 kVp, 61 mA, with a 1 mm aluminum filter (CT Lab HX, Rigaku Americas). The root canal volume was measured using Imaris Viewer Software. Regression analysis was performed, and correlation coefficients were determined for surface area and volume. The average (SD) area (mm²) and volume (mm³) were 12.06 (1.18) and 13.02 (4.30), respectively. The 2D radiographic surface area and micro-CT volume had a modest, positive correlation with a Pearson correlation coefficient (r) of 0.478. This result indicates that three-dimensional (3D) imaging may significantly enhance treatment accuracy, even in teeth with non-complex root anatomy.