Comparative evaluation of the sealing ability of different obturation systems used over apically separated rotary nickel-titanium files: An in vitro study.

AIM: The study was designed to investigate the sealing ability of two obturation systems (cold laterally compacted gutta percha and Obtura II) over different apically separated rotary nickel-titanium files (RACE and K3 system) using dye extraction method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-two mandibular premolars were divided into 2 groups of 30 teeth each, and 2 teeth served as negative controls. In Groups A and B, roots were prepared using RACE and K3 system, respectively, and were further subdivided into 4 subgroups. In subgroups A1, B1 and A2, B2 (n = 10 each), files were separated at 3 mm from the tip in apical 3(rd) of the canal. In subgroups A3, B3 and A4, B4 (n = 5), instruments were not separated. Subgroups A1, A3, B1, B3 and A2, A4, B2, B4 were obturated by lateral condensation method and Obtura II techniques, respectively. The sealing ability of the obturated specimens were tested using dye extraction method. The values for each group were recorded and analysis of variance (ANOVA), Student "t" test (two-tailed, independent), and Leven's test were performed. RESULTS: Group A1 showed significantly less leakage than B1. No statistical significant difference between Groups A2 and B2 and Groups A3 and B3, respectively, were observed. Group A4 showed significantly less leakage than B4. CONCLUSION: Groups obturated with Obtura II showed less leakage than the lateral condensation technique irrespective of presence or absence of fractured NiTi rotary system.

Preauricular sinus: Operating microscope improves outcome.

A retrospective review of preauricular sinuses operated in Sundaram Medical Foundation, a 140-bedded tertiary care hospital during the period 1995 to 2000 is presented. Patients were operated six to eight weeks after control of infection. Magnification with an operating microscope was always used. A team of ENT and Plastic surgeons was involved in all the cases. Involvement of a Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon permitted primary closure after surgery without any drains, individualised incisions in every patient, and early discharge from hospital. A follow up of all operated patients for a period of 18 months revealed good results without any recurrence.