Accuracy of two electronic apex locators: in vivo and in vitro study

The present study proposed the comparison of the reading between the in vivo and in vitro models during the evaluation of Root ZX II foramen locators and Propex II. The localization of the major foramen was determined electronically in 40 canals of human single-rooted teeth in the in vivoand in vitro models. After the two measurements, the actual tooth length was measured. All values were tabulated and submitted to the statistical analysis of the data, applying the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test with significance level of 5% (p<0,05). Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between the in vivo and in vitro models regarding the accuracy of the Root ZX II and Propex II devices during the localization of the major foramen. In the in vivo model, Propex II presented accuracy of 75% (±0,5mm) and 90% (±1,0mm) and Root ZX II presented accuracy of 80% (±0,5mm) and 92,5% (±1,0mm). For the in vitro model, Propex II presented accuracy of 72,5% (±0,5mm) and 97,5% (±1,0mm) and Root ZX II presented accuracy of 80% (±0,5mm) and 95% (±1,0mm). There were no statistically significant differences between the in vivo and in vitro models and between the devices used in the research.