Abstract
Introduction
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans are routinely used by endodontic residents
and faculty at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine for diagnostic purposes
but are not routinely read for pathologic findings by a radiologist. In a 2017 study
by Oser et al (part 1), endodontic residents and a radiologist interpreted CBCT scans
taken for endodontic diagnostic purposes, and their findings were compared. The results
demonstrated that a radiologist is significantly more likely to report incidental
findings in small field of view (FOV) scans. A limitation of this study was that the
radiologist used a checklist of common findings to review the scans. The purpose of
this study was to examine whether the use of a checklist would improve the sensitivity
of the endodontic residents’ reporting of incidental findings in small FOV CBCT scans.
Methods
The 203 small FOV CBCT scans used in part 1 were obtained and reviewed by endodontic
residents in a systematic fashion. Radiographic findings were reported using a blank
checklist. The results were compared with those previously reported.
Results
The radiologist reported abnormalities in 176 of the 203 subjects (87%), and the residents
reported abnormalities in 184 of the 203 subjects (91%). There was an increase in
false positive findings when the residents were using a checklist.
Conclusions
The use of a checklist improved the sensitivity but decreased the specificity of the
reporting of incidental findings in small FOV CBCT scans by endodontic residents.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: January 23, 2023
Identification
Copyright
© 2023 American Association of Endodontists.
