Audit of Molar Endodontic Treatment at Fiji National University (2007/2012)

Objectives: An audit to identify statement of correct diagnosis using current terminology, assessment of radiographic records and determination of its diagnostic value and establishing if root canal treatment initiated was completed.
Methods: A retrospective study where patient folders from 2007 and 2012 were extracted and data collection done by auditing folders which included – diagnosis, stabilization, working length, canal prep and obturation phases, final restoration placed, quality of radiographs and overall treatment.
Results: Total of 47 patients in 2007 and 30 in 2012 were seen. In 2007, 39% cases did not state status of pulp and root canal compared to 2012 (6%). In 2007, 96% did not state periapical status compared to 2012 (6%). 100% of cases in 2012 recorded cause of endodontic treatment compared to 2007 (27%). Leading cause of seeking endodontic treatment was caries (2007-43%, 2012-69%) followed by failed restoration (2007-25%, 2012-31%). 2007 had a higher percentage of treatment completed (90%) compared to 2012 (40%).

In 2007, 25 pre-operative radiographs were present (64% had good diagnostic quality). All radiographs had correct placement of emboss dot and were correctly mounted. 8 were correctly labeled. All 14 post-operative radiographs had correct placement of emboss dot. 9/14 were of good diagnostic quality and 13 were correctly mounted.

In 2012, 90% of pre-operative radiographs had correct placement of emboss dot (86% were of good diagnostic value). 28 were correctly mounted while 20 were correctly labelled. Out of the 13 completed root canal treatments, 7 final radiographs were present (100% had good diagnostic quality). All were correctly mounted with emboss dot at their correct positions. 6 /7 radiographs were correctly labelled.
Conclusions: This is the first phase of a long–term research project which aims to gauge success of endodontic treatment provided by students. The success of the endodontic treatment will be assessed clinically, radiographically and by provision of questionnaires to participants in the second phase of the research.