(PR127) Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging Catheter Guide Wire Removal for Endodontic Imaging

Objective: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technology that uses light waves to generate high-resolution 3D images, widely applied in medicine, especially invasive cardiology. Previous research has shown that cardiology OCT systems can create detailed 3D images of root canals. One challenge with these devices is the guide wire at the distal end of the imaging device. Although necessary to cardiology, the guide wire prevents adequate imaging of intracanal environments. Prior studies with this technology required over-instrumentation or sectioning of tooth roots. This study analyzed whether modification of the catheter to remove the guide wire would retain the device's functionality. If the guide wire can be removed while retaining the imaging catheter’s functionality.

Methods: A sample size of 10 extracted teeth with simulated anomalies were instrumented to allow for intracanal catheter use. Imaging was then completed using the Abbott OPTIS Integrated System and Dragonfly OPTIS Imaging Catheter. The 27 mm guide wire was removed, and imaging was repeated with the modified device. 3D images from before and after the imaging catheter alteration were compared side-by-side.

Results: The device modification did not affect the functionality of the catheter and the modified catheter produced images similar to the initial intracanal scans in all samples.

Conclusion: Confirming functionality of imaging catheters after guide wire removal allowed for scanning at the distal end of these devices, making OCT imaging systems more viable for intracanal imaging. Further development OCT for endodontic application is indicated.