Canal Morphology Research Articles

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Analysis of the Root Canal Morphology of Lower Second Molars in the Croatian Subpopulation

The aim of this study was to investigate the root canal morphology of lower second molars in the Croatian subpopulation of the Zagreb region using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). We analyzed 3212 CBCT scans from the two radiology centers in Zagreb. The number of roots and root canals, the occurrence of C-shaped canals and additional roots were recorded. “C”-shaped roots were classified according to Melton classification. Canals in the mesial root were classified according to Vertucci. Lower second molars were found on 608 CBCT scans from a total number of 859. Among them, 78 (9.1%) had a “C”-shaped form. In the mesial roots, the frequencies of Vertucci types were: Type I in ninety-four cases (12.0%), Type II in three hundred and twenty cases (41.0%), Type III in six cases (0.8%), Type IV in three hundred and fifty-two cases (45.1%), Type V in three cases (0.4%), Type VI was found in four cases (0.5%) and Type VIII was found in one case (0.1%). Radix entomolaris and paramolaris were found in 29 (3.4%) lower second molars. The lower second molars in the Zagreb population show significant diversity in internal anatomy with a relatively high prevalence of “C”-shaped root canals and merged root canals in the mesial root.

Inner ear morphology in wild versus laboratory house mice.

The semicircular canals of the inner ear are involved in balance and velocity control. Being crucial to ensure efficient mobility, their morphology exhibits an evolutionary conservatism attributed to stabilizing selection. Release of selection in slow-moving animals has been argued to lead to morphological divergence and increased inter-individual variation. In its natural habitat, the house mouse Mus musculus moves in a tridimensional space where efficient balance is required. In contrast, laboratory mice in standard cages are severely restricted in their ability to move, which possibly reduces selection on the inner ear morphology. This effect was tested by comparing four groups of mice: several populations of wild mice trapped in commensal habitats in France; their second-generation laboratory offspring, to assess plastic effects related to breeding conditions; a standard laboratory strain (Swiss) that evolved for many generations in a regime of mobility reduction; and hybrids between wild offspring and Swiss mice. The morphology of the semicircular canals was quantified using a set of 3D landmarks and semi-landmarks analyzed using geometric morphometric protocols. Levels of inter-population, inter-individual (disparity) and intra-individual (asymmetry) variation were compared. All wild mice shared a similar inner ear morphology, in contrast to the important divergence of the Swiss strain. The release of selection in the laboratory strain obviously allowed for an important and rapid drift in the otherwise conserved structure. Shared traits between the inner ear of the lab strain and domestic pigs suggested a common response to mobility reduction in captivity. The lab-bred offspring of wild mice also differed from their wild relatives, suggesting plastic response related to maternal locomotory behavior, since inner ear morphology matures before birth in mammals. The signature observed in lab-bred wild mice and the lab strain was however not congruent, suggesting that plasticity did not participate to the divergence of the laboratory strain. However, contrary to the expectation, wild mice displayed slightly higher levels of inter-individual variation than laboratory mice, possibly due to the higher levels of genetic variance within and among wild populations compared to the lab strain. Differences in fluctuating asymmetry levels were detected, with the laboratory strain occasionally displaying higher asymmetry scores than its wild relatives. This suggests that there may indeed be a release of selection and/or a decrease in developmental stability in the laboratory strain.

Distolingual root prevalence in mandibular first molar and complex root canal morphology in incisors: a CBCT analysis in Indian population

Cone-beam computed tomography was used to understand the possible correlation between the prevalence of distolingual root (DLR) in permanent mandibular first molars (MFMs) and the associated complicated mandibular incisor’s root canal morphology (MIs) in an Indian population. A total of 400 scans were evaluated for MFMs and MIs. The prevalence of DLRs and root canal anatomy of MIs were assessed based on Vertucci’s classification, and then the sample were grouped according to age, sex and side. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the possible correlation between the presence of DLRs in the first molar and root canal morphology of incisors. Chi square test was used to evaluate the correlation between the root canal configurations of MIs with the existence of DLRs in MFMs. There was no statistically significant difference between sexes or ages for the prevalence of DLRs in the first molars (p > 0.05), which was 6.62%, with the right side having a greater frequency of DLRs (7.8%) than the left (5.5%). Vertucci Type I canal configuration was most common for the mandibular central (66.75%) and lateral incisors (58.62%). Vertucci Type III was the most common complicated canal morphology, followed by Types V, II, and IV for MIs, with no statistically significant difference in the studied sample's age and sex. (p < 0.05). No association was observed between the presence of DLRs in first molars and complicated root canal configurations in MIs. Taken together, the possibility of complicated root canal configuration in MIs was lesser in the presence of DLRs in MFMs among the Indian population.

Micro computed tomography (Micro-CT) characterization of root and root canal morphology of mandibular first premolars: a systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionMandibular first premolars are familiar with their varied root canal morphology, causing difficulties and challenges for successful endodontic procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to study the characterization of root and canal morphology of the first mandibular premolar using micro-computed tomography.MethodologyThe literature search was conducted using electronic web databases like PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect and Cochrane with the chosen MeSH key words and data was retrieved until May 2023. Further to perform the statistical analysis, R v 4.3.1 software with "meta", 'metafor" "metaviz" " ggplot2" package was used, and results were represented by odds ratios (OR) and the percentage of forest plots along a 95 per cent confidence interval (CI).ResultsThe total number of studies meeting the inclusion criteria was 13; these studies were conducted on mandibular first premolar using Micro-CT; the total sample size was 1817. To scan the sample, an X-ray micro-focus CT system (Siemens Inveon CT, Erlangen, Germany) was used in four studies and seven different machines were used in the respective studies. Mimics 10.01 software (Materialize, Leuven, Belgium) and NRecon v.1.6.9 software (Bruker, Kontich, Belgium) were commonly operated. The minimum and maximum voxel size ranges between 11.94 and 50 μm. Vertucci’s classification was frequently used (9), while one study applied Ahmed et al. and Vertucci’s classification.ConclusionThis systematic review provides essential information about the root and canal configurations, radicular grooves, accessory canals, and apical foramina through Micro-CT, aiming to improve the accuracy of endodontic treatment and help practitioners.

A Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of C‐Shaped Canal Configuration in Maxillary Molars Among an Iranian Population

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and configuration of C‐shaped canal morphology in maxillary molars in an Iranian population residing in Kermanshah Province of Iran using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).Materials and Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 2290 CBCT scans of 804 maxillary first molars, 1049 maxillary second molars, and 437 maxillary third molars. The Maxillary Upper‐C Classification System was used for the detection of C‐shaped canal morphology, and the classification by Jo et al. was used for assessment of the configuration of C‐shaped canals. Data were analyzed by the Chi‐square test (α = 0.05).Results: The prevalence of C‐shaped canals in the maxillary first, second, and third molars was 1%, 7%, and 9%, respectively. Type III other types (B‐P) was the most frequent configuration followed by type I subtype C (MB‐DB). The prevalence of C‐shaped canal morphology was not significantly different among different age groups (p &gt; 0.05); however, its prevalence in females was almost twice that in males (p &lt; 0.05). The prevalence of C‐shaped canals was not significantly different in the right and left quadrants (p = 0.099). The most frequent configuration was type I subtype B (DB‐P) in males, and type III other types (B‐P) in females (p = 0.364).Conclusion: The prevalence of C‐shaped canals in maxillary first, second, and third molars was 1%, 7%, and 9%, respectively. C‐shaped canals were more common in females, and type III other types (B‐P) was the most frequent configuration in our study population.

Morphology of Roots and Canals of Maxillary First Premolars: A CBCT Study in a Peruvian Sample.

Introduction: It is important to take into account variations in structures related to dental pulp for planning the most adequate endodontic treatment management. The objective of this study was to determine the morphology of roots and canals of maxillary first premolars (MFPs) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included a sample of 392 CBCTs of Peruvian adults proportionally selected by sex, age, and quadrant. One MFP per individual was selected for evaluation by a calibrated evaluator based on the number of roots and canal configuration according to the Vertucci classification (VC; Cohen's κ ≥ 0.834). Pearson's χ 2 and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used with a significance level of P < 0.05. Results: Most MFP presented double roots (59.9%) and were VC type IV (52%). Morphology showed a nonsignificant difference by quadrants (P=0.994). A significant positive association was found between the presence of double roots and type IV in men and with older age, while single roots and type I and II were associated with women and younger age (P < 0.05). Double roots were associated with VC type IV (86%) and single roots with types III (34%), II (32%), and I (26%; P < 0.001). Conclusions: MFPs in a Peruvian sample presented a higher frequency of double roots with two separate canals. The morphology of root and canals was associated with age and sex.

Cone-beam Computed Tomography Analysis of the Root Canal Morphology of Mandibular Incisors Using Two Classification Systems in a Spanish Subpopulation: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This study evaluated the root and canal morphology in permanent mandibular incisors teeth using cone-beam computer tomography imaging in a Spanish subpopulation, and compared these findings with ipsilateral (similarity) and contralateral (symmetry) incisors. In addition, the position of canal splitting was measured. A total of 229 datasets comprising four mandibular teeth each (n=916 incisors) were analysed using Vertucci and Ahmed et al. classifications, and, the similarity and symmetry were calculated. The distance from the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), and the most coronal canal divergence was measured (if present). The role of sex was also assessed. The Cochran Q Test, LOGIS PROC in SUDAAN, Chi-square, and Kappa were used for the different comparisons. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. All incisors were single-rooted and no significant differences regarding root canal morphology were found according to the sex of the subjects included in the database. The most common morphology was Vertucci type I/Ahmed et al. 1MI1(65.3% for central and 66.8% for lateral incisors respectively), followed by type III/1MI1-2-1 (31% for central and 30.6% for lateral incisors). 1.8% of the samples were considered as non-classifiable with Vertucci but were classified with codes using the Ahmed et al. system. Similarity values were 74.7% for the left side, and 74.2% for the right side, whereas symmetry values were 90% for central and 84.3% for lateral incisors. In the presence of divergences, the main (SD) distances from the CEJ were for type II/1MI1-2-1 3.8+-0.8 (centrals) 4.0+-0.7 mm (laterals); for type V/1MI1-2 this value ranged between 6.0+-1.8 and 5.5+-1.5 mm, whereas values for 1MI1-2-3-2-1 were 1.8 and 2.1 mm. No significant differences were found when the position of the most coronal divergence was compared between lateral and central incisors for the different morphologies. A high prevalence of Vertucci I/Ahmed et al. 1MI1 configuration was present in mandibular incisors from Spanish individuals. Similarity and symmetry were common, particularly for central incisors. The position of the coronal splitting of the canals varied according to the root canal morphology.

Prevalence and morphology of middle mesial canal in mandibular first molars in an Indian sub-population: A cone-beam computed tomographic analysis

Aim: The aim of this study was to check for the prevalence and morphology of middle mesial (MM) canals in mandibular first molars in an Indian population divided as per the different zones of the country using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. Methods: A total of 452 CBCT scans were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria on December 2021. The scans were obtained from five different zones of the country with 80–100 scans selected from each zone. They were checked in an axial view to see for the presence of a MM canal (MMC) and if present, were confirmed in a coronal view. Results: Of the 452 scans viewed, 39 showed the presence of MMCs (8.6%). Bilateral presence was seen in 8 scans (1.8%). Hence, overall, 47 molars out of 904 examined showed the presence of MMCs. Thus, the tooth prevalence rate for the presence of MMC was 5.2%. Seventy percent of teeth presenting with MMCs showed two apical exits. Males showed more prevalence when compared to the female population (10.25% vs. 6.88%, P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, with increasing age, there was a consistent decrease in the incidence of MMCs (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Overall, the prevalence of MMCs in an Indian sub-population is 8.6%. Although on a lower range compared to other population, careful exploration is necessary to avoid missing the MMC which might lead to failure of treatment. Age and gender are also found as the important factors that influence the presence of a MMC.

Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) evaluation of root canal morphology in immature maxillary third molars.

The endodontic treatment of immature permanent teeth with necrotic pulp is a significant clinical challenge. The success of regenerative endodontic procedure is highly dependent on disinfection of the root canal and an accurate anatomical knowledge of the root canal. The aim of this study was to use micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis to investigate the configuration of root canals in the upper permanent third maxillary molars with incomplete root development in their coronal, apical and middle third portions. Thirty immature third permanent maxillary molars were scanned using a micro-CT system. Then, we measured the diameters and areas of the root canal in the coronal, middle and apical third of the roots. The ratio between the long and short diameter of each root canal was then calculated and the canals were divided into several groups: round, oval, long oval, flat and irregular. The round configuration was not observed in the distobuccal and mesiobuccal roots in any of their anatomical regions. Oval and long oval canals predominated in the distobuccal root. The greatest variations were observed in the mesiobuccal root, with the ribbon-shaped canal predominating in the middle region and an irregular shape in the apical region. In the coronal region of the palatal canal, the round configuration predominated; in the middle third, we observed an almost equivalent distribution between round and oval configurations; apically, the oval shape predominated. In conclusion, we observed significant complexity and variation in the morphology and configuration of root canals in immature permanent molars, thus generating additional obstacles for the success of regenerative endodontics.

A Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Root Canal Variations in Primary Mandibular Second Molars and Permanent Mandibular First Molars in Indian Population - A Retrospective Study

Background Primary teeth in some instances can have peculiar internal root and canal geometry including interconnections involving furcation with horizontal anastomoses which makes endodontic management extremely challenging. Being one of the first permanent teeth to erupt the mandibular first permanent molars MFPMs are frequently afflicted by caries neccessitating endodontic management.Aim The study aimed to determine the variations in the morphology of the root canals of primary mandibular second molars PMSMs and MFPMs and also the usefulness of Cone Beam Computerized Tomography CBCT in determining the root canal morphology. Methods Fifty CBCT images of children aged 5-10 years were obtained from the institutional database. Hundred PMSMs and MFPMs each were analyzed for a variety of factors including the number of roots and root canals and their form.Results Most of the PMSMs and MFPMs n96 had two distinct roots and the remaining four had three roots. In the distal root one root and two root canals were recognized in 62 cases one root and a single canal in 34 and two roots and a single canal in each of the remaining 4 cases. In the mesial root two root canals were detected in 96 cases and a single canal was noted in 4 of cases. Moreover 72 of the MFPM specimens had three root canals 20 had four and 8 had just two canals.Conclusion This study showed that different root canal configurations can be found in PMSMs and MFPMs. Therefore these variations should be considered during the management.

Evaluación de la morfología radicular de primeros premolares mandibulares mediante tomografía computarizada de haz cónico en una población peruana

Introduction: The morphology of the root canal of the first premolars is not always the same and therefore a good knowledge of its dental anatomy is essential. Aim: To assess the morphology of roots and root canals of mandibular first premolars in a Peruvian population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sec-tional study. A total of 370 mandibular first premolars fulfilling the inclusion criteria were evaluated using CBCT, and the number of roots and root canals, the Vertucci’s classification of root canal configuration, age, sex and side of the tooth were registered. Results: One and two roots were presented in 96.2% (n=356) and 3.8% (n=14), respectively, of the mandibular first premolars analyzed, and one canal was present in 67.6% (n=250) and two canals in 32.2% (n=119). A type I root canal configuration was found in 67.6% (n=250) of the cases followed by type V with 26.2% (n=97). A statistically significant association was found between the number of roots and canals (p&lt;0.001) and age also had a significant influence on this variable (p=0.0043). Conclusions: The presence of one canal in mandibular first premolars is the most frequent, although there is a considerable prevalence of two in the population studied. The number of roots is associated with the number of canals, with age having a significant influence on these variables.

Evaluation of Canal Transportation and Centering Ability of RaCe and Af f-one Systems by Cone-beam Computed Tomography: An in Vitro Study.

Rotary systems have made significant advances to improve their root canal preparation efficacy. These instruments can properly preserve the root canal anatomy and morphology. The present in vitro study aimed to compare canal transportation and centering ability of RaCe and Af f-one systems using cone-beam computed tomography. Thirty-six mandibular molars were included. The samples were randomly assigned to two groups (n=18): group 1, RaCe, and group 2, Af f-one. Canal preparation was conducted using the respective files according to the manufacturers' instructions. The cone-beam computed tomographic scanning of the samples was performed before and after preparation. The data were analyzed by using two-way ANOVA. In both the RaCe and Af f-one rotary systems, canal centrality and transportation were similar at coronal, middle, and apical cross-sections. In addition, canal transportation and centrality were identical in the RaCe and Af f-one rotary files (P<0.05). The two studied rotary systems did not exhibit significant differences in root canal transportation and preservation of root canal centrality in the apical, middle, and coronal thirds.

A micro-computed tomographic evaluation of maxillary first molar accessory root canal morphology in a Black South African subpopulation.

The aim of this study was to investigate the accessory root canal morphology of maxillary first molars in a Black South African subpopulation. Micro-computed tomography was used to investigate 101 maxillary first molars (from 50 male and 51 female teeth, right 53 teeth, left 48 teeth). The prevalence of chamber canals, and the number, type and location (root third) of accessory canals were recorded. The relationships between arch side, sex and age were examined using chi-squared tests of association. Intra- and inter-observer reliability were assessed using Cohen's kappa test. Intra- and inter-rater agreement was 96.9% and 98.1%, respectively. Variations in accessory root canal anatomy according to side, sex and age were evident. Chamber canals were identified in 10.9% of teeth. Accessory canals were found mainly in the apical third of most teeth in the sample, and distributed predominantly in the mesio-buccal root. Apical deltas were most prevalent in the mesio-buccal root, and their frequency decreased in the palatal and then finally the disto-buccal root. Accessory root canals were common in this population, and showed a diverse range of anatomy. The present findings will be of assistance to clinicians during endodontic treatment and will also be valuable for educational purposes.

Prevalence of Isthmi and Root Canal Configurations in Mandibular Permanent Teeth Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography.

While root canal anatomy in Middle Eastern populations is well-studied, research on isthmi in mandibular permanent teeth from this region is limited. This retrospective study used cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to examine isthmi prevalence and location, as well as root canal morphologies (per Vertucci's classification) in mandibular permanent teeth from a subpopulation in Ardabil, Iran. The study is aimed at enhancing our understanding of dental anatomical variations in Middle Eastern populations. A total of 3566 teeth from 384 CBCT scans were evaluated in this retrospective study. Mandibular teeth were evaluated on sagittal, coronal, and axial sections regarding the presence of isthmus and root morphology (Vertucci's classification). CBCT scans of 197 males (51.3%) and 187 females (48.7%) were evaluated, with a mean age of 41.1 ± 11.4 years. Isthmi were most prevalent in molar mesial roots, typically located in the middle third for anterior teeth and first premolars and cervical third for posterior teeth. While gender did not play a significant role, the presence of an isthmus in the mesial root of the left second molars was associated with a younger mean patient age (p < 0.05). Root morphology varied across tooth types. Central and lateral incisors predominantly showed Vertucci's Types I and III. Canines and premolars were mostly Type I, with some variation. Molar mesial roots frequently exhibited Types IV and II, while distal roots were predominantly Type I. Statistically significant differences were found between morphology and gender in the first left premolar (Type I more common in women; Type V in men; p < 0.001) and in the right canine (Type I more prevalent in men; Types III and V more prevalent in women; p < 0.001). The results revealed wide variations in root canal morphology and a relatively high prevalence of isthmi in the study population. Our findings suggest a potential difference in tooth anatomy based on sex and a relationship between age and the presence of isthmi.

A rare case of maxillary third molar with four roots and five root canals and its endodontic management with the help of cone-beam computed tomography

Maxillary third molars (M3) have unpredictable pulp morphology. They usually have one to three roots; any additional is called an accessory root. Various in vitro and in vivo studies examined its root canal morphology but none of the case reports has been published regarding the successful endodontic treatment of M3 with four roots and five canals. Herein, a case of a 42-year-old male with a complaint of severe pain in M3 is presented. Endodontic treatment was carried out and four canals were negotiated and cleaned. To decipher, the pulp canal complex anatomy cone-beam computed tomography was advised and the presence of the fifth canal (MB2) was confirmed, negotiated, cleaned, and obturated. This report is by far the first case of endodontic treatment of M3 to be reported in the Indian population with four roots and five canals.

Correlation of root canal morphology of endodontically treated premolar and molar teeth with procedural errors using cone-beam computed tomography in an Iranian population

Correlation of root canal morphology of endodontically treated premolar and molar teeth with procedural errors using cone-beam computed tomography in an Iranian population

Endodontic management of maxillary first molar with two palatal canals - A case report

An awareness and understanding of unusual root canal morphology is essential as it deter-mines the successful outcome of endodontic treatment. Aberrations in root canal anatomy are commonly occurring phenomena. I report a clinical case of a maxillary left first molar with two palatal root canals. The morphology is atypical because it has two palatal canals with separated orifices, running parallelly but joined at the apex. Modifications to the usual access opening and examination of the pulpal floor for additional canals are essential in such atypical cases for the success of endodontic treatment

Evaluation of Root Canal Morphology of Mandibular Premolars Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography in Golestan Province, North of Iran.

Successful endodontic treatment depends on completely clearing, shaping, and filling the prepared canals. Knowledge of the common and aberrant varying pulp anatomies is essential for suitable root canal treatment. Since, this anatomy is complex and varies morphologically in different populations. This study aims to determine the number of roots, canals, and evaluation of mandibular premolars canals using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images in one of Iran's northern provinces (Golestan). CBCT axial, coronal, and sagittal slices of two hundred and twelve mandibular premolars were analyzed to determine the number of roots and canals based on Vertucci type. The images were analyzed in a one-millimeter slice in mesiodistal and buccolingual dimensions based on gender. The data were analyzed using the Chi-score test to compare the components if the defaults were not established. A significance level of 0.05 was considered. Of the two hundred twelve teeth evaluated, 130 (61.3%) were first premolars, and 82 (38.6%) were second premolars. Most first premolars (78.5%) and almost all second premolars (97.6%) had one root. Morphological types of root canals were identified based on Vertucci's classification types I, II, III, IV, V, or VIII, and type I was the most frequent. There were no significant associations between number of roots and sex (P>0.05). Mandibular premolars mostly had one root and type I Vertucci morphology. The frequency of two-canal premolars was higher in the male population. Although the abundance of two or three roots with different morphologies was also observed, the possibility of the presence of an additional root canal should be considered.

Comparison of Root Canal Morphology in Intraoral Periapical Radiographs and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: An In vitro Study

Backgrounds and Objectives: Intraoral periapical radiographs (IOPAR) are routinely used to fulfill the preoperative, par-operative and postoperative imaging needs in endodontic treatment. IOPAR is not a sensitive tool for identification of complex root canal morphology with failure rates of up to 34%. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides three-dimensional imaging and has been recommended when endodontic imaging needs cannot be met by IOPAR. There is a need to understand which anatomic parameters are better viewed in CBCT and which on IOPAR. Hence, this study is planned to compare the root canal morphology on IOPAR and CBCT and correlate with chemically cleared tooth. Methods: One hundred recently extracted teeth were collected and subjected to IOPAR and CBCT scanning. A total of six root canal morphologies were compared in both the imaging modalities and with the teeth itself after making it chemically transparent. Results: CBCT and IOPAR showed a good agreement in detection of fractured tooth roots with P &lt; 0.005. However, CBCT was better than IOPAR in detection of the number of accessory canals, ramifications, and obliterations in the root canal and fractures with P &lt; 0.005. IOPAR showed reduced artifacts with P &lt; 0.005. During working length measurement, both CBCT and IOPAR showed increased values than the cleared teeth although CBCT was more accurate. Conclusion: We can conclude from this study CBCT is more accurate in detection of root canal morphologies in comparison to IOPAR.

The hydraulic network of the pre-Hispanic city of Tiwanaku (Bolivia): New insights from the integration of canal morphology, hydrogeological and palaeoenvironmental data

Water management enabled the development of ancient societies allowing them to ensure agropastoral production and manufacturing activities. In the Andes, near the shore of Lake Titicaca, the city of Tiwanaku (Bolivia) is one of the largest pre-Hispanic urban centres in South America. Abrupt climate changes in the high-altitude Altiplano during the late Holocene likely forced the population to develop water management strategies. So far, knowledge concerning the existence of a water network around the city of Tiwanaku is limited to hypotheses derived from surface and aerial observations. In this study, geoscience techniques (morphology, geophysics, sedimentology and chronostratigraphy) helped to reconstruct the canals' morphology and their flow dynamics, along with their chronology of operation in a context of hydroclimatic change. Two ca. 30 m large canals bypassing the monumental core and supplied by a shallow water table and multiple tributaries, connected the agricultural and the urban areas. The structure and organization of the network testify to an elaborate knowledge of the local hydrology by the former builders of the city. It ensured water supply and flood management in relation to the extreme intra- and inter-annual variability of precipitations in the central Andes. The palaeogeographical and landscape reconstruction demonstrates that canals were set from natural features during the early Late Formative period (200 BCE to 200 CE) during a wet period likely for water resource management needs. During the Tiwanaku state (before 800 CE), the filling of the canal network with soil and sediment suggests a major change in its use, and possibly its partial abandonment, during a major restructuration of the site, in a period of increased regional precipitation.