Cone-beam computed tomographic analysis of middle mesial canals and isthmus in mesial roots of mandibular first molars-prevalence and related factors.

CONTEXT

The internal anatomy of mandibular first molars has been studied in depth in different populations. However, limited information is present in differentiating a true middle mesial (MM) canal from an isthmus.

AIMS

The primary aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of a true MM canal and isthmus by retrospectively analyzing cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images . The secondary aim was to determine any correlation between related factors such as sex and age.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CBCT images of 130 patients with the age group of 13-70 years were selected. Findings of MM canals and isthmus were recorded along with variables such as age and sex. Prevalence was compared using the Chi-square test ( < 0.05).

RESULTS

Out of 143 mandibular first molars, the prevalence of the MM canal was 18.2%. There was no statistically significant difference between sex and prevalence of the MM canal and isthmus. The prevalence of isthmi in the mesial roots was 78.4%. Their presence was significantly higher in the apical third area (37.1%) ( < 0.05). Both MM canal and isthmus were seen significantly higher in the age group of 31-50 years ( < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a high prevalence of MM canals (18.2%) and isthmus (78.4%). The prevalence of the MM canal and isthmi was significantly higher in the middle age groups. This knowledge may direct the clinicians in locating them leading to good endodontic prognosis.