Detection of simulated incipient furcation involvement by CBCT: an in vitro study using pig mandibles

The aim of the present study was to test the reproducibility, sensitivity, and specificity of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in detecting incipient furcation involvement. Fifteen macerated pig mandibles, with intact second molar teeth and preserved adjacent cortical areas, were used. Simulated lesions were created in the furcation region of these teeth by applying 70% perchloric acid in up to four possible buccal/lingual sites in the right/left sides of each mandible. The mandibles were then submitted to a CBCT scan. Two blinded and calibrated experienced oral and maxillofacial radiologi...