Guidelines on radiographic imaging as part of root canal treatment: a systematic review with a focus on review imaging after treatment

Abstract

Aim: To identify guidelines on endodontics which make recommendations relating to post-root canal treatment radiological review imaging, to make an objective assessment of their quality using the AGREE tool and to examine the evidence cited in support of their recommendations.

Methodology: The primary sources to identify published guidelines were MEDLINE (Ovidâ) and EMBASE. The search aim was to identify guidelines pertaining to the post-root canal treatment follow-up recommendations published from 1946 with the final search date being 26 June 2016. The primary search was supplemented by searching Internet search engines and several websites that might have guidelines. The guidelines obtained from the search end-result were assessed for quality and scientific evidence using the AGREE II instrument. Similarities and differences in the recommendations were identified.

Results: Thirty guidelines were identified, seven of which met the inclusion criteria. Two guidelines used and clearly described the methods for obtaining scientific evidence from which the recommendations were set. The recommendations varied, particularly as regards the timing of the first review radiograph. Some guidelines lacked supporting evidence.

Conclusions: The recommendations for post-root canal treatment radiographic follow-up varied amongst the identified guidelines. However, the methodology for obtaining the scientific evidence was poorly described in most of the guidelines. Guideline development groups should use the AGREE II instrument as a guide to produce higher quality guidelines.