Comparative Evaluation of the Clinical Accuracy of E-Pex and Propex Pixi Electronic Apex Locators for Working Length Determination in the Presence of Different Root Canal Irrigants: An in Vivo Study

AbstractBackgroundAccurate working length determination is essential for successful endodontic treatment, as it directly influences cleaning, shaping, and obturation of the root canal system. Electronic apex locators (EALs) have become an important adjunct in endodontic practice because of their improved accuracy and reduced dependence on radiographs. However, the presence of irrigating solutions with varying electrical conductivity may influence their accuracy.Aim: To evaluate and compare the clinical accuracy of the E-PEX Apex Locator and Propex Pixi Apex Locator in determining working length in the presence of different root canal irrigants.Materials and Methods: This in vivo study was conducted on thirty single-rooted premolar teeth indicated for nonsurgical endodontic treatment. Actual working length was determined using a size #10 Kfile under magnification and confirmed using digital calipers. Electronic working length measurements were obtained using the E-PEX Apex Locator and Propex Pixi Apex Locator in the presence of 0.9% saline, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, and 17% EDTA. Measurements were repeated three times and averaged. Radiographic verification was performed using standardized intraoral periapical radiographs. Statistical analysis was carried out using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests.Results: The mean root canal length measured using radiographic and electronic methods showed no statistically significant difference for both apex locators (p > 0.05). The mean deviation from actual working length was 0.17 ± 0.33 mm for the E-PEX Apex Locator and 0.15 ± 0.23mm for the Propex Pixi Apex Locator, indicating comparable accuracy between the devices. Irrigating solutions significantly influenced electronic measurements (p = 0.001). Saline demonstrated measurements closest to the control values, whereas sodium hypochlorite and EDTA showed comparatively greater deviations. However, all measurements remained within clinically acceptable limits.Conclusion: Both the E-PEX Apex Locator and Propex Pixi Apex Locator demonstrated reliable and clinically acceptable accuracy in determining working length in the presence of various irrigating solutions. Although irrigants influenced electronic measurements, both apex locators can be safely used in routine endodontic practice for accurate working length determination.