Prevalência de fenestrações radiculares apicais em uma subpopulação brasileira: estudo por tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of apical root fenestrations (ARF) in a Brazilian subpopulation using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methodology: A total of 2000 CBCT exams were selected from the database of the Radiology Service at the Faculty of Dentistry - Federal University of Juiz de Fora. Exams that contained unclear imagesof tooth root or evidence of parendodontic or orthognathic surgery were excluded. Overall, 39126 teeth were analyzed by a single evaluator experienced in CBCT, who was properly calibrated. To determine the condition of each tooth, sagittal and coronal sections were used in multiplanar reconstruction (MPR)mode and the teeth were initially classified according to the presence or absence of ARF. Teeth with ARF were futher classified by type, based on the extent of the fenestration: Type 1- only apical third; Type 2- middle and apical thirds and Type 3- cervical, middle and apical thirds. The results showed that 560 (1.43%) teeth, exhibited fenestration, with type 1 being the most common. For types 1 and 2 fenestrations, the maxillary first premolar presented the highest frequency (5.8% and 1%, respectively), followed by the maxillary first molar (3.4% and 0.6%, respectively). For type 3 fenestration, the maxillary first molar (0.2%) showed the highest frequency. The age group over 56 years old had a higher prevalence (2.3%) and, in general, fenestrations were more commonly detected in women. The presence of fenestrated roots is evident in this Brazilian subpopulation, almost exclusively in the maxilla, and their prevalence increased with age. Although ARF are relatively rare, they are an important consideration especially in cases of complex diagnoses. Being aware of this condition can aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.