Identificação de itens essenciais na elaboração de um laudo de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico com aplicação na endodontia: um estudo delphi

Abstract

The tomographic image is crucial for determining diagnosis and treatment plans in various clinical cases in endodontics. Due to the increasing demand for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, the need for a system to interpret and describe imaging findings has become essential. The objective of this study was to identify the information considered essential by the requesting dentist in a tomographic report for clinical practice in endodontics. A consensus e-Delphi study was conducted with a panel of 12 endodontic specialists who participated in two rounds of online sequential and individual questioning. The professionals were asked about the key information they deemed important in a tomographic report to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning across different clinical scenarios. The gathered information was categorized by two experienced radiologists, and items endorsed by 80% or more of the endodontists after the second round were deemed essential in a tomographic report. Identification of abnormalities, along with their precise location description, and the selection of images illustrating them in different orthogonal planes were considered essential items by the specialists in a tomographic report. The imaging report serves as the primary communication tool between the radiologist and the requesting dentist, and should contain all necessary information for the clinician, presented clearly and concisely, to ensure optimal patient care.