Comparative analysis of working length determination using Radiovisiography, Electronic apex locator & Graduated root canal length indicating cone – An in vivo study

Abstract

Purpose:The present study evaluated accuracy of radiovisiography (RVG), electronic apex locator (EAL)andgraduated root canal length indicating cone (GRCLIC) when used for working length determination. Materials and Methods:Total of 11 patients with 30 maxillary anterior teeth in the age group of 30-60 years scheduled for extraction for periodontal reasons were selected. Standard access cavities were preparedand selected teeth were then subjected to working length determination using three methods and compared with actual canal length determined after extraction. The study groups were as follows: Group 1: Working length determination using RVG Group 2: Working length determination with EAL Propex-II, Dentsply Group 3: Working length determination using GRCLIC Group 4: Actual canal length determined after extraction and 1mm subtracted from it The data was analyzed statistically by ANOVA test to compare the four groups and by unpaired t-test and scheffe’s multiple comparison test group wise. Results:There was no significance difference (p > 0.05) observed between Group 1 (RVG), Group 2 (EAL) and Group 3 (GRCLIC) with Group 4 (AL).Percentage accuracy analysis indicated that GRCLIC method showed maximum accuracy i.e. 96.43% followed by RVG with 96.12% accuracy and EAL with a value of 95.81%. Conclusion: GRCLIC used for calibration of working length produced comparable results with the actual length, thus suggesting that it may be used for root length determination in clinical practice instead of conventional files with less accuracy. Key Words:Electronic Apex Locator, Graduated Root Canal Length Indicating Cone, Radiovisiography, Working length determination