Computer-aided analyzing system in root canal therapy

Abstract

To develop a new system that can evaluate the relative performance of the root canal shaping instruments via accurately measuring root canal geometric centerline, root canal 'thickness' (diameter), root canal sectional profile area and root canal volume before and after the root canal preparation. Extracted human maxillary molars were scanned before and after root canal shaping employing micro-computed tomography at an isotropic resolution of 34 μm. Threedimensional root canal models were reconstructed. The C# language was adopted to compile the: "Computer-added analyzing system in root canal therapy", which could quantitatively evaluate the root canal shaping ability by accurate measuring root canal geometric parameters mentioned in above. Preparation errors such as apical zips, perforations and fractured instruments were visually determined from those models. Volume and surface area increased significantly and similarly in root canals after preparation. Mean root canal sectional diameter (which is 12mm coronal to the apex) increased from 0.31mmto 0.52mm. Mean volume, increased from 7mm3to 10mm 3. From the root canals centerline graph, the root canals were significantly straightened during preparation. After the testing in the actual root canal treatment, the evaluation of the root canal geometry changes before and after the preparation can be made by the Computer- Aided analyzing system. © 2008 Springer-Verlag.