(PR141) The Effect of Bit Depth, Viewing Angles and Magnification in the Diagnosis of MB2 Canals on CBCT Images

Monitor displays are an essential part of CBCT image analysis. Most consumer display monitors are limited to 256 (8 bit) shades of gray. A 10-bit monitor offers 1024 shades of gray. A suboptimal viewing angle is another factor that may lead to a decrease in the contrast ratio of the images and so subtle changes can be missed. 25 CBCT images of maxillary first molars were viewed at different monitors, viewing angles (0 and 30 degrees) and magnified image sections. A five‐point Likert scale was used to collect the feedback from participants. Two faculty and two residents participated in this pilot study. MB2 canals were best detected at magnified10-bit monitor at 0-degree angulation, followed by magnified 10-bit angled monitor and 10-bit 0-degree viewing conditions. The magnified image sections scored higher for both 8-bit and 10-bit monitors. Magnified images had a 9% increase in MB2 canal detection. Increasing the bit-depth increased the canal detection by 7%. There was a decrease in MB2 canal identification by 6% in 30-degree viewing angle. The faculty were better able to perceive the MB2 canal compared to the residents by 14%. Magnification has a greater impact on MB2 canal detection followed by bit-depth and viewing angles. This study will identify the optimal viewing condition and monitor bit-depth detection of the MB2 canal in maxillary molars.