Anatomical Factors Influencing Furcation Regeneration: The Root Trunk. A Retrospective, Multicenter Clinical Study

ABSTRACT Objectives The relationship between the anatomy of the root trunk and success in regenerative therapy of furcation defects is discussed in this article. The goal of this retrospective, multicenter clinical study is to clinically evaluate the relationship between the root trunk conformation and regenerative therapy success. Material and Methods One hundred thirteen radiographs of mandibular molars with furcation defects that had been treated with regenerative therapy were collected from six clinical centers. Data on the type of therapy and clinical parameters before and after treatment (follow‐up of at least 12 months) were collected. The radiographs (before surgery and at least 12 months postoperatively) were measured with a visual evaluation method by a blind operator using graphics software. Results Success was defined as: reduction in horizontal and vertical furcation involvement, decrease in probing depths, and increase in clinical attachment level. It was statistically assessed on 113 regenerated molar sites and related to root trunk. Also clinical variables such as age, sex, and treatment were evaluated. No correlation was found between success in regenerative therapy and the conformation of the root trunk. Conclusions The regenerative outcome was not significantly influenced by the root trunk conformation. The center, the degree of furcation involvement, sex, and treatment were significantly associated with higher success of periodontal regeneration.