Surgery for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Following Induction Chemotherapy: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND: The use of surgery in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) following induction chemotherapy is increasing. However, most series do not report on the total cohort of patients undergoing surgical exploration; therefore, this single-center study investigates outcomes among all consecutive patients with LAPC who underwent surgical exploration. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, single-center analysis including all consecutive patients with LAPC (Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group criteria) who underwent surgical exploration with curative intent (January 2014-June 2023) after induction therapy. Primary outcomes were resection rate and overall survival (OS) from the time of diagnosis. RESULTS: Overall, 127 patients underwent surgical exploration for LAPC, whereby 100 patients (78.7%) underwent resection and 27 patients (21.3%) underwent a non-therapeutic laparotomy due to the extent of vascular involvement (n = 11, 8.7%) or occult metastases (n = 16, 12.6%). The overall in-hospital/30-day mortality rate was 0.8% and major morbidity was 31.3% (in patients after resection: 1.0% and 33.3%, respectively). The overall 90-day mortality rate was 5.5%, which included 3.1% mortality due to disease progression. Resection was associated with longer median OS {29 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 26-43) vs. 17 months (95% CI 11-26); p < 0.001} compared with patients undergoing non-therapeutic laparotomy, with corresponding 5-year OS rates of 28.4% and 7.7%. In Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, only pancreatic body/tail tumors independently predicted OS (hazard ratio 1.788 [95% CI 1.042-3.068]). CONCLUSION: This single-center series found a resection rate of 78.7% in patients with LAPC selected for surgical exploration, with a low risk of mortality and morbidity in all explored patients and a 5-year OS rate after resection of 28.4%.

British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) consensus document for the management of male genital emergencies - penile fracture.

Male genital emergencies relating to the penis and scrotum are rare and require prompt investigation and surgical intervention. Clinicians are often unfamiliar with the management of these conditions and may not work in a specialist centre with on-site expertise in genitourethral surgery. The aim of these consensus statements is to provide best practice guidance for urological surgeons based in the UK which are developed by an expert consensus. Penile fracture is a rare emergency and in most cases requires prompt exploration and repair to prevent erectile dysfunction and penile curvature.

Predictors of distant metastasis on exploration in patients with potentially resectable pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND: Patients with potentially resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are frequently found to be unresectable on exploration due to small distant metastasis. This study was to investigate predictors of small distant metastasis in patients with potentially resectable PDAC. METHODS: Patients who underwent surgical exploration for potentially resectable PDAC from 2013 to 2014 were reviewed retrospectively and divided into two groups according to whether distant metastases were encountered on exploration. Then, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of distant metastasis. A scoring system to predict distant metastasis of PDAC on exploration was constructed based on the regression coefficient of a multivariate logistic regression model. RESULTS: A total of 235 patients were included in this study. Mean age of the study population was 61.7 ± 10.4 years old. Upon exploration, distant metastases were found intraoperatively in 62 (26.4%) patients, while the remaining 173 were free of distant metastases. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified that age ≤ 62 years old (p < 0.001), male sex (p = 0.011), tumor size ≥4.0 cm (p < 0.001), alanine aminotransferase level (ALT) < 125 U/L (p < 0.001), and carbohydrate antigen (CA19-9) level ≥ 385 U/mL (p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for occult distant metastasis of PDAC. A preoperative scoring system (0-8 points) for distant metastasis on exploration was constructed using these five factors. The receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the area under the curve of this score was 0.85. A score of 6 points was suggested to be the optimal cut-off value, and the sensitivity and specificity were 85% and 69%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Distant metastasis is still frequently encountered on exploration for patients with potentially resectable PDAC. Younger age, male sex, larger tumor size, low ALT level and high CA19-9 level are independent predictors of unexpected distant metastasis on exploration.

[Necrotizing fasciitis in head and neck area]. / Nekrotizáló fasciitis a fej-nyaki régióban.

Necrotizing fasciitis is a fulminant infection of the deeper layers of skin and subcutaneous tissues characterized by progressive soft tissue necrosis and high mortality. It rarely occurs in the head and neck area. The clinical picture includes non-specific but typical local and systemic symptoms. The treatment is a complex, multidisciplinary task which includes radical surgical exploration, debridement and drainage, empirically started and then targeted intravenous antibiotics and supportive therapy. Authors report a case of necrotizing fasciitis localized on the right side of the face which caused multi-organ failure and phlegmone of the neck.

Primary Omentum Malignant Hemangiopericytoma Present with Acute Abdomen.

The greater omentum primary malignant tumors are rare, with less than 50 cases reported. Malignant hemangiopericytomas constitute only four of these cases. The common clinical manifestations of a malignant omental tumor are abdominal mass and pain. We report on a woman 38 years old who came to the hospital's emergency department with a finding consisting of intestinal obstruction (abdominal pain, constipation, abdominal distention, and vomiting), and during a clinical examination a mass was discovered in the lower half of her abdomen. She had been experiencing these symptoms for three days before her arrival. During a clinical examination, a large size, hard mobile mass was discovered in the lower half of her abdomen. The patient underwent an abdominal CT scan which indicated the presence of a sizable, soft tissue mass located within the abdominal and pelvic region, exerting pressure on the small bowel loops, with mild free ascites. Due to the patient's acute abdomen, an exploration laparotomy was performed, revealing a large mass in the omentum measuring 20×20×10 cm and weighing 3 kg. The mass, along with the omentum, was completely removed, and histopathology confirmed a malignant hemangiopericytoma.

Case Report on Adrenal Schwannomas: A Rare Mimic in the Spectrum of Adrenal Masses.

Adrenal schwannomas are exceptionally rare tumors affecting about 0.2%, originating from the adrenal gland, presenting diagnostic challenges due to their nonspecific clinical features and overlapping radiological characteristics with other adrenal masses. Here, we report the case of a 49-year-old female with no significant medical history presenting with diffuse abdominal pain. Imaging studies, including contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT), revealed a well-defined mass within the right adrenal gland. Given inconclusive radiological findings and persistent symptoms, surgical exploration was performed, leading to the identification and resection of the mass. Microscopic examination, including immunohistochemistry, confirmed the schwannomatous origin of the tumor. The final diagnosis of an adrenal schwannoma was established after a histopathological examination. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with antibiotics and discharged on oral antibiotics after suture removal on advised follow-up after 15 days. This case highlights the diagnostic complexities associated with adrenal schwannomas and emphasizes the necessity of surgical intervention for conclusive diagnosis. The report aims to contribute to the limited literature on adrenal schwannomas, enhancing our understanding of their clinical presentation and reinforcing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in their diagnosis and management.

Fournier's gangrene in a female: A case report.

Fournier's gangrene is characterized by an acute necrotic infection. The infection can occur in all parts of the body including the scrotum, penis, or perineum, and is a rare condition that is primarily reported in men and seldom in women. Existing literature suggests that it might be underreported, possibly leading to overlooked cases. Risk factors include diabetes, chronic illness, and trauma. This case involves a 52-year-old female with a 10-year medical history of diabetes mellitus, multiple healed skin lesions all over the body, and dermatitis. The presentation was a perianal swelling, which progressed into an extensive necrotizing soft tissue infection of the perineum, making a diagnosis of Fournier's gangrene. She underwent wide local debridement and was managed with antibiotics in a timely manner. The patient's clinical course and subsequent follow-up were uneventful. Uncontrolled diabetes and dermatitis significantly increase the risk of Fournier's gangrene; therefore, it should be suspected in women with such comorbid conditions. This case highlights the need for increased awareness and vigilance regarding this condition among women.

A Rare Case of Gastroduodenal Artery Aneurysm Rupture with Perforated Duodenal Ulcer.

Purpose: In this case we report a rare presentation of a ruptured gastroduodenal artery aneurysm (GDA) accompanied by a duodenal perforation. It contributes to the scientific literature by discussing the management approach and results in a patient with dual complications and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Case presentation: A 50-year-old male presented with severe abdominal pain, anemia, and signs of hemodynamic instability. Diagnostic imaging including CTA revealed a large, thrombosed gastroduodenal artery aneurysm with evidence of rupture. The patient underwent open surgical exploration and repair to address both the aneurysm and the duodenal perforation. The patient's recovery was satisfactory and was discharged home in stable condition. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and appropriate management in gastroduodenal artery aneurysms is crucial. There is a need for individualized surgical interventions based on the patient's hemodynamic status and associated complications. Dual complications required open surgical exploration and repair, resulting in favorable outcomes.

From inguinal to giant femoral hernia: An unusual postoperative twist - A rare case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Femoral hernias following inguinal hernia repairs are an unusual occurrence that presents diagnostic challenges for healthcare providers. Surgical repair of inguinal hernias is generally successful, but complications and recurrence can arise. The coexistence of femoral hernias following inguinal hernia repairs is rare, requiring careful evaluation and management. CASE PRESENTATION: A middle-aged patient sought medical attention with complaints of recurrent groin pain and a palpable bulge in the inguinal region. Initial imaging studies, including ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), pointed towards an inguinal hernia, leading to the scheduling of surgical repair. However, during the operation, the surgeon discovered a femoral hernia, highlighting the limitations of imaging techniques in accurately diagnosing these hernia types. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Due to anatomical variations and overlapping signs and symptoms, distinguishing between femoral and inguinal hernias can be challenging. Scar tissue from previous inguinal hernia repairs can further complicate imaging interpretations. Intraoperative exploration becomes crucial to confirm the diagnosis and facilitate proper surgical repair. CONCLUSION: The reported case emphasizes the importance of maintaining vigilance in evaluating patients with suspected hernias, particularly those with prior inguinal hernia repairs. Relying solely on imaging studies can lead to misdiagnosis, as illustrated by the discovery of a femoral hernia during surgery. Healthcare providers should be aware of the possibility of femoral hernias and conduct comprehensive evaluations to ensure timely intervention and improve patient outcomes. Further research and awareness are essential to optimize the care of such uncommon clinical scenarios.

Diagnostic Dilemma: IgG4-Related Sclerosing Mesenteritis Mimicking an Abdominal Malignancy Enveloping the Superior Mesenteric Artery.

Sclerosing mesenteritis, a rare fibroinflammatory disease affecting the mesentery, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its varied clinical manifestations and unknown etiology. We present a case of a 50-year-old female presenting with epigastric pain and weight loss, initially suspected of abdominal malignancy. Imaging revealed a mesenteric mass, and histopathological examination confirmed dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with storiform fibrosis, along with elevated serum IgG4 levels, indicative of IgG4-related sclerosing mesenteritis. Treatment with thalidomide and prednisolone resulted in significant mass regression and symptom improvement. Our case highlights the importance of considering sclerosing mesenteritis in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses and suggests a potential therapeutic approach for this rare condition. Further research is warranted to elucidate its pathogenesis and optimize management strategies.

Testicular Torsion and Irreversible Loss in an Adolescent Male: A Harrowing Case Report With Emphasis on Timely Intervention and Literature Review.

Testicular torsion is a condition characterized by the twisting of the testis and spermatic cord within the scrotum, resulting in the obstruction of venous return and subsequent swelling. If left untreated, the torsion can progress to block the arterial blood supply, leading to ischemia. Prolonged ischemia can result in testicular necrosis and decreased fertility. Recognizing the urgency of this condition, timely diagnosis and management are crucial. In this clinical case, a 16-year-old male presented with left-sided scrotal pain following a minor trauma. Despite prompt medical attention, the delay in seeking treatment resulted in irreversible testicular necrosis. The case emphasizes the urgency of diagnosing and managing testicular torsion to prevent serious consequences such as testicular loss and reduced fertility. It serves as a poignant reminder for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant in recognizing this urological emergency and advocating for timely intervention to optimize patient outcomes.

A case report on umbilical artery catheter embolization in a neonate, and its surgical management.

Umbilical arterial and venous catheters are used widely in management of critically ill neonates. Being delicate, they can get inadvertently damaged by needles, scissors, or tight purse-string sutures during insertion and removal. Umbilical artery catheter embolization is a rare and dreaded complication, with less than 15 cases reported to date. We describe a term neonate, in whom a 3.5-Fr umbilical artery catheter, accidentally broken and dislodged, was surgically retrieved through right common iliac arteriotomy, safely and completely. Direct surgical retrieval of umbilical catheters while avoiding attempts at local exploration maybe considered a first line in management, particularly if endovascular facilities are unavailable or inaccessible.

Timing of surgical operation for patients with intra-abdominal infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) is the most common type of surgical infection, with high associated morbidity and mortality rates. In recent years, due to the use of antibiotics, various drug-resistant bacteria have emerged, making the treatment of abdominal infections more challenging. Early surgical exploration can reduce the mortality of patients with abdominal infection and the occurrence of complications. However, available evidence regarding the optimal timing of IAI surgery is still weak. In study, we compared the effects of operation time on patients with abdominal cavity infection and tried to confirm the best timing of surgery. AIM: To assess the efficacy of early vs delayed surgical exploration in the treatment of IAI, in terms of overall mortality. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid, and ScienceDirect. The systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses method. Based on the timing of the surgical operation, we divided the literature into two groups: Early surgery and delayed surgery. For the early and delayed surgery groups, the intervention was performed with and after 12 h of the initial surgical intervention, respectively. The main outcome measure was the mortality rate. The literature search was performed from May 5 to 20, 2021. We also searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform search portal and ClinicalTrials.gov on May 20, 2021, for ongoing trials. This study was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. RESULTS: We identified nine eligible trial comparisons. Early surgical exploration of patients with IAIs (performed within 12 h) has significantly reduced the mortality and complications of patients, improved the survival rate, and shortened the hospital stay. CONCLUSION: Early surgical exploration within 12 h may be more effective for the treatment of IAIs relative to a delayed operation.

Gastric Trichobezoars in paediatric population- A series of six cases and literature review.

Background: Trichobezoar is a rare gastrointestinal pathology in paediatric population. Patients present with a range of symptoms from being asymptomatic to abdominal pain with a palpable abdominal mass. Once diagnosed it warrants urgent retrieval as delayed diagnosis may lead to serious complications. Methods: We present a series of six cases between March 2021 and March 2022 who presented to Children's Hospital and were diagnosed as a case of Gastric Trichobezoars. Patients were optimized and prepared for surgery. All patients underwent Surgical exploration and a tuft of hair were removed. They were followed up throughout the course of treatment and three of the patients underwent psychiatric evaluation. Discussion and conclusion: Trichobezoar is a rare but important surgical case that is a manifestation of underlying psychiatric ailment. Presentation varies from asymptomatic masses to life threatening complications with delayed presentations. A multi-disciplinary approach including Psychiatric, Paediatrician and Paediatric surgeon should be undertaken. Follow-up is the mainstay of treatment and recurrence may be seen due to non-compliance or inadequate management.

Penetrating injury with an arrow impacted in the neck in rural Tanzania, a case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Penetrating neck injuries refer to neck injuries that penetrate through the platysma layer which can cause life-threatening injuries to the aerodigestive and neurovascular systems. Currently penetrating neck injuries are mainly due to modern firearms however penetrating neck injuries due to arrows are still seen, although rare, in rural areas among developing countries. Management depends on hemodynamic stability, signs of structural damage and zone of neck involved. CASE PRESENTATION: 19-year-old male presenting with a penetrating arrow impacted in his neck following an attack by cattle raiders who was otherwise stable of presentation. Underwent preoperative imaging with removal of the arrow under general anaesthesia via surgical exploration. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: We concur with the recommendation to first obtain adequate imaging to establish degree of injury as well as for operative planning. Removal of impacted arrow should not be carried out blindly but rather in a controlled environment under general anaesthesia via surgical exploration. CONCLUSION: Penetrative arrow injuries to the neck are an archaic problem that can be dealt with via modern surgical principles towards penetrating neck injuries. Unstable patients warrant emergent exploration however stable patients can first be worked up appropriately to ascertain degree of injury. Impacted arrows can then be removed safely under general anaesthesia rather than risk further injury to critical structures via blind removal.

Can transcutaneous perianal ultrasonography be the first-line diagnostic instrument for evaluating pediatric perianal fistulas?

Background: Pediatric perianal fistula is a common disorder. It is more difficult to detect the fistula tract and internal opening (IO) in children than in adults. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical diagnostic value of transcutaneous perianal ultrasound for children with perianal fistula. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted by analysing the preoperative transcutaneous perianal ultrasound and intraoperative exploration results of 203 consecutive patients who were <3 years old and diagnosed with perianal fistula. Analyses were conducted to evaluate the accuracy and consistency of utilizing the transcutaneous perianal ultrasound in the diagnosis of the complexity and location of the IO of perianal fistulas. Results: Compared with intraoperative exploration, the preoperative transcutaneous perianal ultrasonography has almost perfect agreement (Kappa = 0.881, P < 0.001) in the diagnosis of fistula tract complexity and IO with a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 97%. In addition, both intraoperative exploration and transcutaneous perianal ultrasound diagnosis showed high consistency in the identification of the IO of perianal fistulas (Quadrant I Kappa = 0.831, Quadrant II Kappa = 0.773, Quadrant III Kappa = 0.735, Quadrant IV Kappa = 0.802, all P < 0.01). The IOs were mainly distributed in Quadrants IV and II in both simple and complex fistulas. Conclusions: Transcutaneous perianal ultrasound, as a non-invasive and simple imaging technique, showed high accuracy in the diagnosis and identification of the fistula classification and IO location. It could be considered a first-line diagnostic instrument for evaluating perianal fistulas among children.

Utility of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration in pancreatic cancer patients who failed to obtain a pathological diagnosis in surgical exploration.

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) allows for the analysis of diagnostic tissue specimens from various regions. For pancreatic tumors, especially un-resectable ones, how to obtain pathological confirmation is important for determining sub-sequent treatment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical utility of EUS-FNA in patients who failed to obtain a pathological diagnosis in surgical exploration. Methods: Patients who underwent EUS-FNA due to unsuccessful biopsy in surgical exploration in our center were retrospectively reviewed. All of the patients were diagnosed with resectable disease before surgery but were found to be unresectable during surgery. The positive rate of pathological diagnosis of EUS-FNA was analyzed. Results: A total of 11 patients were included in this study, among which 8 were males and 3 were females. The median age of the patients was 55 years (range, 48 to 73 years). The median lesion size was 34 mm (range, 25 to 44 mm). The median number of needle passes was 3 (range, 1 to 3). Two patients underwent biliary stent implantation while 3 patients underwent gastrojejunostomy before EUS-FNA. The technical success rate of EUS-FNA was 100% (11/11); 10 (90.9%, 10/11) samples were positive and 1 was negative (being inadequate). Conclusions: Intraoperative biopsy is the first choice diagnostic modality for unresectable pancreatic neoplasms. However, for patients who fail to obtain a pathological diagnosis in surgical exploration, EUS-FNA is still worth an attempt.

A Case Report of Penetrating Extremity Trauma: A Near Miss Encounter.

Introduction: In penetrating injuries, neurovascular structures are the main concern as they can be damaged either at the point of injury or are at risk of iatrogenic damage during exploration. Lapse in planning and a hasty attempt at retrieval in the emergency, often results in retention of a part of the foreign body. In this case report, we emphasize the need for exploration in the operating room to prevent potential complications from missed foreign body. Case Report: A 24-year-old motorcyclist involved in a road traffic collision was received at our trauma center, with a foreign object sticking out from his lower third right arm. On clinical exam, there were no distal neurovascular deficits. A radiograph was taken and the patient was shifted to the theater. On exploration, the foreign body was removed with gentle manipulation after careful debridement, along its path of insertion. Only localized muscle injury was noted. All the surrounding neurovascular structures were intact. At 3 weeks, wound had healed with no residual symptoms. Conclusion: Penetrating trauma is notorious for neurovascular injuries and therefore a meticulous history taking, clinical exam, and planning is vital. Exploration in the operating room is a must for complete and safe retrieval of the foreign body.

A retrospective multicentric analysis on testicular torsion: is there still something to learn?

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Speedy diagnosis are mandatory in testicular torsion, nevertheless some cases of irreversible ischemia still occur. In this study we analysed the results of patients undergoing surgical exploration for acute scrotum. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multicentric retrospective clinical evaluation was carried out on patients who underwent urgent scrotal exploration at 12 different departments in North-Eastern Italy. Data included complete anagraphic information, clinical presentation, numeric pain rating scale, previous testicular surgery, Doppler serial ultrasonography (US) evaluation and concordance with surgical findings, testicular mobility, surgical treatment, staged or concurrent treatment of the contralateral gonad. Statistical analysis was conducted both for descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS v26. RESULTS: Three hundred and sixty-eight cases were collected between January 2010 and June 2019. The time between symptom onset and ER access time was within 6 h in majority of patients. However, 17.4% of subject presented after more than 12 h. In patients undergoing US, this showed signs of ischemia in 237 patients (77.2%) and normal vascularisation in 70 (22.8%) of whom 26 had signs of testicular torsion at surgical exploration. Overall, the US data were concordant with the surgical findings in 254 cases (82.7%). A significant association was found between time-to-evaluation and time-to-treatment and the need for orchiectomy (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Testicular torsion management is still challenging in terms of time-saving decision making. Scrotal US is helpful, but even in the contemporary its sensitivity is low era in a non-neglectable number of cases, therefore surgical exploration is warranted in acute scrotum when torsion cannot be ruled out, even when US shows vascularisation.

Diagnosis of Vertical Root Fractures by Cone-beam Computed Tomography in Root-filled Teeth with Confirmation by Direct Visualization: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this review was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging in detecting vertical root fractures (VRFs) in root-filled teeth compared with a reference standard (direct visualization). METHODS: Electronic searches were performed in Medline, Scopus, Cochrane, and gray literature for English language articles until June 2020. Prospective and retrospective clinical studies using CBCT imaging to diagnose VRFs in root-filled teeth were included. Case reports and in vitro studies were excluded. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 tool was used to assess the risk of bias and applicability concerns. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16.1 software (StataCorp, College Station, TX) via the MIDAS v.3.0 package and METANDI module. Publication bias was evaluated using Deeks' funnel plot analysis. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) was performed to evaluate the certainty of evidence. This systematic review was registered in the Open Science Framework (10.17605/OSF.IO/7JKE2). RESULTS: Eight articles were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Risk of bias assessment showed that 5 articles in the patient selection domain had low risk of bias with low applicability concern. In the index test and reference standard domains, 7 articles had moderate risk of bias with moderate applicability concern. Three articles had high RB in the flow and timing domain. There was no publication bias. CBCT imaging had a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.88) and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.63-0.91), respectively, and an accuracy of 0.86 (95% CI, 0.83-0.89). CBCT imaging also had pooled positive and negative likelihood ratios of 4 and 0.2, respectively. In GRADE analysis, the quality of evidence was low for sensitivity and moderate for specificity when CBCT imaging was used for the diagnosis of VRF. CONCLUSIONS: The overall quality assessment of the included articles showed that in the patient selection domain, the risk of bias was low, and it was moderate in the index test and reference standard domains. Evidence from this systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that CBCT imaging is still not a good tool for diagnosing VRFs in root-filled teeth compared with direct visualization.