Dental CT versus Radiography in the Detection of Vertical Root Fractures

Aims & Objectives: To compare the fi ndings of Radiography and Computed Tomography (CT) in the diagnosis of vertical root fractures and to correlate our fi ndings post operatively. Material and Methods: We evaluated 22 cases of clinically suspected vertical root fractures those who were referred to us for Dental CT and compared fi ndings of Radiography and CT. Radiography was carried out in the Oral Radiology department and Dental CT was carried out using Philips Brilliance multislice CT scanner. The fi ndings of Radiography and CT were then compared by two experienced radiologists independently. All patients were confi rmed intraoperatively. Results: The sensitivity of Radiography for detection of vertical root fracture was 27% for reviewer I and 25% for Reviewer II. The specifi city of Radiography for detection of vertical root fracture was 100% for both the reviewers. The sensitivity of CT for detection of vertical root fracture was 93%for reviewer I and 95% for Reviewer II. The specifi city of CT for detection of vertical root fracture was 94% for Reviewer I and 100% for Reviewer II. Conclusion: In conclusion, CT is an indispensable tool for the detection of vertical root fractures and scores far better over Radiography.