Evaluation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging as Alternative to Cone Beam Computed Tomography for the Assessment of Furcation Involvement in Molars

Aim of this prospective study is to compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to diagnose furcation involvement (FI) in molars in patients with periodontitis. The focus is on the differentiation of grad II and III according to Hamp et al. 1975. 140 molars (70 upper and 70 lower) will be investigated with CBCT and MRI. Due to the absence of ionic radiation MRI might be a radiation free diagnostic tool to assess FI in the future without harmful radiation for the patient. Patients of the Dental Clinic, Medical University of Vienna, who need a CBCT and have a clinically diagnosed FI can be a participant of this clinical trial and do in addition to their CBCT a MRI. The accuracy of MRI will be compared to the diagnostic gold standard CBCT. If patients need additional periodontal treatment, e.g., periodontal surgery, a subgroup will also be analysed with intraoperative measurements.