Abstract

Aim To evaluate the reproducibility of the Restorative Index of Treatment Need (RIOTN) system for grading the complexity of root canal treatment.

Methodology The RIOTN system of grading the complexity of root canal treatment was applied to all endodontic referrals to a department of restorative dentistry in a district general hospital within a period of one year. Grading was repeated in 60 randomly selected teeth and weighted kappa analysis was used to test for intra-observer as well as inter-observer agreement with a consultant in restorative dentistry and a vocational trainee (VT).

Results In all, 152 patients were referred for root canal treatment of 186 teeth within the period of study. Weighted kappa for intra-observer agreement when categorising complexity was 0.636. Weighted kappa for inter-observer agreement with the consultant was 0.570 and that for agreement with the VT was 0.223.

Conclusion The RIOTN system of grading the complexity of root canal treatment was incomplete; with moderate to poor reproducibility.

1. Associate Specialist in Restorative Dentistry, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, SA6 6NL
2. Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, SA6 6NL
3. Research Fellow, Department of Adult Dental Health, School of Dentistry, Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY
4. Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Department of Adult Dental Health, School of Dentistry, Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY

Correspondence to: A. Muthukrishnan¹ e-mail: akhila.muthukrishnan@swansea-tr.nhs.wales.uk