Clinical outcomes of endodontic microsurgery in complicated cases with large or through-and-through lesions: a retrospective longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the clinical outcomes of endodontic microsurgery in complicated cases presenting with large or through-and-through lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively collected and analyzed preoperative, intraoperative, and follow-up data from 143 complicated cases that underwent endodontic microsurgery. Clinical outcomes were assessed in terms of tooth survival and surgery success. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the survival rate and identify associated risk factors. Additionally, the success rate was compared across different postoperative periods, and potential factors contributing to surgical failure were identified through binary logistic regression. RESULTS: The overall survival and success rates were 93.0% and 91.7%, respectively. The Cox regression model identified four risk factors affecting tooth survival, including apicoectomy of four teeth (HR = 35.488; P = 0.0002), an open apex observed on preoperative radiographs (HR = 6.300; P = 0.025), the performance of guided tissue regeneration technique (HR = 8.846; P = 0.028), and a palatal surgical approach (HR = 8.685; P = 0.030). The success rate demonstrated an initial increase in the early postoperative period (from 0.5 to 2 years; P = 5.8124e-30), followed by stabilization (from 2 to 9 years; P = 0.298). Surgery success rate significantly declined when apicoectomy involved four teeth (OR = 109.412; P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Endodontic microsurgery demonstrates satisfactory outcomes in complicated cases, maintaining a stable success rate after two years. However, tooth survival and surgery success are significantly compromised when apicoectomy involves four teeth. Factors such as guided tissue regeneration, an open apex, and the palatal surgical approach are associated with an increased risk of tooth extraction. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Despite achieving acceptable outcomes in complicated cases, endodontic microsurgery is adversely affected by the apicoectomy of four teeth.

A novel simplified approach for endodontic retrograde surgery in short single-rooted teeth.

BACKGROUND: High technical thresholds, long operative times, and the need for expensive and specialized equipment impede the widespread adoption of endodontic microsurgery in many developing countries. This study aimed to compare the effects of a simplified, cost-effective, and time-efficient surgical approach involving orthograde obturation using biological ceramic material greater than 6 mm combined with apicoectomy for single-rooted teeth with short lengths with those of the conventional and current standard methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five premolars equally categorized into three groups: conventional surgery group, standard surgery group, and modified surgery group. A µCT scan was used to calculate the volume of voids. A micro-leakage test and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were performed to assess the sealing effect. Additionally, four cases of chronic periapical periodontitis in the anterior region were selected, and the patients received either the modified approach or the standard surgery for endodontic microsurgery. RESULTS: The volumes of voids in the apical 0-3 mm of the modified group and the standard group were comparable. The micro-leakage test and SEM examination demonstrated closely bonded fillings in the dentinal walls in both the modified surgery group and standard surgery group. The outcomes of the preliminary application of this modified procedure on patients were successful at the time of the follow-up cutoff. CONCLUSIONS: The modified surgery group exhibited similar root canal filling and apical sealing abilities with the standard procedure for single-rooted teeth with short lengths (< 20 mm). The preliminary application of this modified surgical procedure achieved favorable results.

Dynamically guided transantral piezoelectric endodontic microsurgery: A case report with technical considerations.

AIM: Endodontic microsurgery (EMS) of maxillary molars may represent a complex challenge to the clinician due to the location of the roots and the proximity of the maxillary sinus floor. This report aimed to describe the simultaneous use of a computer-assisted dynamic navigation (C-ADN) system and piezoelectric bony-window osteotomy for the transantral microsurgical approach of a maxillary left first molar with adequate root canal filling and symptomatic apical periodontitis. SUMMARY: This case report highlights the importance of C-ADN to carry out a minimally invasive buccal surgical access to palatal roots affected by apical periodontitis and provides a practical example to help clinicians make treatment decisions based on the available evidence. Clinical and tomographic evaluations were performed before the surgical procedure and at 24-month follow-up. This case was treated using a C-ADN system fitted to a piezotome for the buccal approach of the buccal roots, maxillary sinus membrane lifting, and for transantral location, root-end resection, cavity preparation, and filling of the palatal root. The navigation system allowed to achieve an accurate apical canal terminus location and root-end filling of the three roots with a minimally invasive piezoelectric crypt approach. At the 24-month follow-up examination, the patient remains asymptomatic, with normal periapical structures, and regeneration of maxillary sinus walls. It was concluded that the combination of dynamic navigation with piezoelectric bony-window osteotomy offers enhanced accuracy, tissue preservation, diminished risk of iatrogenic complications, and could maximize success and survival rates in transantral EMS.

Effectiveness evaluation of autotransplanted teeth after performing extraoral endodontic surgery instead of conventional root canal therapy.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to examine the viability and efficacy of utilizing extraoral apicoectomy and retrograde filling in combination to seal the root canal system of mature molars without the need for root canal therapy (RCT) during the autotransplantation of teeth (ATT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study screened 27 patients who received ATT at the Department of Oral Surgery in the Hospital of Stomatology from 2019 to 2021. Extraoral apicoectomy and retrograde filling were performed, while RCT was temporarily not performed. The study analysed the periodontal status and masticatory function of transplanted teeth one to three years postoperation and used cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and periapical radiograph (PA) to evaluate the integrity of the periodontal space and intra/periapical inflammation. The potential predictors of survival/success were analysed statistically. We also conducted questionnaires and chewing efficiency tests. RESULTS: In this study, 27 TTs from 27 patients were found to be fully functional in terms of chewing ability. The overall survival rate was 100% (27/27), and the success rate was 70.4% (19/27). A total of 90.9% (20/22) of patients reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their TTs. Additionally, the chewing efficiency of the transplantation side was on average 82.0% of that of the healthy side, with a significant difference between the two sides (P < 0.05). None of the potential predictors were found to significantly affect the success or survival of the transplanted tooth (TT). CONCLUSION: The combination of extraoral apicoectomy and retrograde filling in TT showed promising outcomes, but further clinical cases and longer follow-up times are still required to validate the treatment plan.

Piezoelectric Device and Dynamic Navigation System Integration for Bone Window-Guided Surgery.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the feasibility of integrating a piezoelectric device (PIEZO) into a dynamic navigation system (DNS) for bone-window guided surgery. It compares the accuracy and efficiency of PIEZO + DNS to PIEZO + Freehand (FH) procedure for bone-window cutting and root-end resection (RER). METHODS: Forty-eight mandibular molars of 3D-printed surgical jaw models were divided into two groups: PIEZO + DNS (n = 24) and PIEZO + FH (n = 24). Cone-beam computed tomography scans were taken before and after the procedure. The procedure was virtually planned on X-guide software. The bone-window cutting and RER were conducted with a PIEZO under dynamic navigation in the PIEZO + DNS group and using the dental operating microscope in the PIEZO + FH group. The 2D- and 3D-accuracy deviations and angular deflection were measured for the bone window cut. The root length resected and resection angle were calculated. The bone window cut, RER, total operating time, and number of mishaps were recorded. RESULTS: PIEZO + DNS was more accurate than PIEZO + FH for bone-window cutting, showing fewer 2D and 3D deviations and less angular deflection (P < .05). The resection angle was lower in the PIEZO + DNS (P < .05). The bone-window cut and total operating time were significantly reduced using a DNS (P < .05). There was no difference in the number of mishaps (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the integration of a PIEZO into a DNS is feasible for bone-window guided surgery. The DNS improved the accuracy and efficiency of bone-window cutting.

Cirugía periapical y regeneración: revisión sistemática / Periapical surgery and regeneration: systematic review

Introducción: Tras un cirugía periapical, suele estar asociado un defecto óseo que puede ser regenerado o no según la literatura. El objetivo es analizar si la regeneración ósea asociada a la cirugía periapical tiene efectos beneficiosos en la curación de los diferentes defectos. Material y Mètodos: Revisión sistemática realizada en Medline-Pubmed, Scopus y Cochrane. Se consideraron criterios PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Ensayos clínicos aleatorizados, estudios de casos y controles, de cohortes y transversales publicados entre enero 2011 y abril 2022, que analizaran el èxito de la cirugía periapical combinada o no con diferentes tècnicas de regeneración ósea, idioma inglès o español, realizados en humanos y adultos (≥16años) fueron incluidos. Resultados: Se incluyeron un total de 8 artículos que analizaban una "n" total de 285 sujetos con 35 abandonos. Se analizan diferentes tipos de lesiones: lesiones transversales, defectos apicomarginales y lesiones periapicales, excepto un estudio que compara las tres. Se utilizan diferentes materiales de regeneración. Se obtuvo un rango de èxito de regeneración ósea entre 81,6% y 93,7%. Discusión: Los avances en equipos de magnificación visual aumento, instrumentos y materiales endodónticos son la razón de un mayor èxito de las cirugías periapicales. Las imágenes en 3D, son valiosas para obtener un mejor diagnóstico del tamaño y tipo de defecto, y planificar así el tratamiento considerando la necesidad de regenerar o no. Aunque los resultados siguen siendo inciertos parece ser que en los defectos transversales y apicomarginales es mejor regenerar, al contrario de los defectos periapicales. (AU)

Introduction: According to the literature, after a periapical surgery there usually remains a bone defect that may be regenerated or not. The aim of this review is to analyse whether bone regeneration associated with periapical surgery is favourable on the healing of different defects. Material and Methods: A systematic review was performed in Medline-Pubmed, Scopus and Cochrane. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria were considered. Randomized clinical trials, case-control, cohort and cross-sectional studies published between January 2011 and April 2022, that analyses the success of periapical surgery associated or not with different bone regeneration techniques, English or Spanish, humans and adults (≥ 16years) studies were included. Results: A total of eightreports were included. They evaluated 285 subjects, with 35 subjects that dropped out. Different types of lesions were analysed in each report: through-and-through lesions, apico-marginal lesions, and periapical lesions, except for one that compared all of them. Different kinds of bone regenerative materials were used. A range of success of between 81,6% and 93,7% of bone regeneration was achieved. Discussion: Improvements in augmentation equipment, instruments, and materials are the reason for the large success of periapical surgery. 3D images are useful to make a better diagnosis of the size and kind of the defect and, in this way, to plan the treatment considering the need to regenerate or not. Although the results remain uncertain, it seems that for through-and-thought and apico-marginal lesions, it is better to regenerate in contrast with periapical lesions. (AU)

Application of platelet-rich fibrin and freeze-dried bone allograft following apicoectomy: A comparative assessment of radiographic healing.

Background: Apicoectomy conceptualizes surgically maintaining a tooth with an endodontic lesion that cannot be resolved by conventional endodontic (re-) treatment. To achieve this, continuous improvement in surgical techniques, materials and instruments is being done to enhance the outcome of periapical endodontic surgeries. The purpose of this study was to compare, radiographically, the healing kinetics of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and mineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA) in patients undergoing apicoectomy. Materials and Methods: Nineteen patients (aged 18-40 years) were included in the study and randomly assigned to groups A or B, where they received PRF or FDBA, respectively. Following apicoectomy, PRF gel and FDBA graft were prepared and placed in the osseous defect followed by placement of PRF membrane for graft stabilization and flap closure. Radiographic follow-up was done at the 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th months for evaluation of healing using Molven's criteria. Statistical analysis was done with Pearson's and McNemar's Chi-square tests. Results: A highly significant difference (P = 0.002) in radiographic healing was observed at 6 months. Complete healing was observed in 50% of cases in Group A whereas in Group B, none of the cases presented with complete radiographic healing. However, at the end of 12 months, complete radiographic healing was observed in both groups. Conclusion: Our data suggest that PRF accelerates bone healing as compared to FDBA and is both time and cost-efficient.

Guided endodontic surgery - Case series.

This case report describes three cases in which periapical surgeries were carried out using a new surgical endodontic technique by using a three-dimensional (3D) printed template for guided osteotomy and root resection. In Case 1, the data obtained from preoperative CT scan and cast scan were transferred to a surgical planning software. The surgical template was printed using a 3D printer. Using the template, osteotomy and root-end resection were precisely carried out. In Case 2, after CBCT imaging, data were transferred to stereolithography and a 3D model was fabricated. With the help of the 3D model, a template was fabricated using tray material. This guided surgical template minimized the extent of osteotomy and enabled precise targeting of the apex. In Case 3, a preoperative CT scan aided in the fabrication of a surgical 3D template. The template assisted in the precise removal of the overlying cortical bone.

Does the "Root Removal First" strategy prevent postoperative complications in the surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars in the Pell and Gregory class C and horizontal position? - a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the "Root Removal First" strategy in the surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molar (IMTM) in the class C and horizontal position. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 274 cases were finally included in the statistics. The positions of IMTM in the horizontal position were confirmed by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Cases were randomly divided into two groups: the "Root Removal First" strategy was applied in the new method (NM) group, and the conventional "Crown Removal First" strategy was executed in the traditional method (TM) group. The clinical information and relevant data upon follow-up were recorded. RESULTS: The duration of the surgical removal and the incidence rates of lower lip paresthesia in the NM group were significantly lower than those in the TM group. The degree of mobility of the adjacent mandibular second molar (M2) in the NM group was significantly lower than that in the TM group at 30 days and 3 months post-operation. The distal and buccal probing depth of the M2, as well as the exposed root length of M2 in the NM group, were significantly lower than those in the TM group 3 months post-operation. CONCLUSIONS: The "Root Removal First" strategy can reduce the incidence rate of inferior alveolar nerve injury and periodontal complications of the M2 in the surgical removal of IMTM in class C and horizontal position with high efficiency. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR2000040063.

A Cadaver-based Comparison of Sleeve-guided Implant-drill and Dynamic Navigation Osteotomy and Root-end Resections.

INTRODUCTION: This study compared the accuracy and efficiency of fully guided static and dynamic computer-assisted surgical navigation techniques for osteotomy and root-end resection (RER). METHODS: Fifty roots from cadaver heads were divided into two groups: fully guided static computer-assisted endodontic microsurgery (FG sCAEMS) and dynamic computer-assisted endodontic microsurgery (dCAEMS) (all, n = 25). Cone-beam computed tomography scans were taken pre and postoperatively. The osteotomy and RER were planned virtually in the preoperative cone-beam computed tomography scan and guided using 3D-printed surgical guides in the FG sCAEMS and 3D-dynamic navigation system in the dCAEMS. The 2D and 3D deviations and angular deflection were calculated. The osteotomy volume, resected root length, and resection angle were measured. The osteotomy and RER time and the number of procedural mishaps were recorded. RESULTS: FG sCAEMS was as accurate as dCAEMS, with no difference in the 2D and 3D deviation values or angular deflection (P > .05). The osteotomy and RER time were shortened using FG sCAEMS (P < .05). The FG sCAEMS showed a greater number of incomplete RERs than dCAEMS. Osteotomy volume, RER angle, and root length resected were similar in both groups (P > .05). FG sCAEMS and dCAEMS were feasible for osteotomy and RER. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this cadaver-based study, FG sCAEMS was as accurate as dCAEMS. Both FG sCAEMS and dCAEMS were time-efficient for osteotomy and RER.

Comparative SEM study of the marginal adaptation of MTA and Biodentine after apical resection (in vitro study).

INTRODUCTION: Successful periapical surgery requires appropriate root resection, preparation, and adequate sealing. AIM: The aim of the present study was to assess the marginal adaptation of MTA and Biodentine after apical resection with an Er:YAG laser and a diamond turbine bur using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The crown part of forty-eight extracted single-root human teeth was removed, and the root canal length of 15 mm was standardized. The root canals were prepared using rotary Ni-Ti Revo-S files up to an apical stop - AS40 and filled with MTA Fillapex and gutta-percha points (cold lateral condensation). The teeth are divided into 2 main groups: group 1 (n=24) after apical resection with a turbine bur, ultrasonic preparation of the retrograde cavity at 3 mm depth and retrograde obturation with Biodentine and MTA; group 2 (n=24) after apical resection with an Er:YAG laser, ultrasonic preparation of the retrograde cavity at a depth of 3 mm and retrograde obturation with MTA and Biodentine. A SEM was used for assessment of the marginal adaptation of the material to the root dentin. The data was entered into and analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0. RESULTS: In the group with apical resection with a turbine bur, a statistically significant difference in the gap size between the material and dentin was found in both materials we studied (MTA and Biodentine). The higher mean value was in MTA (1.72 µm), in Biodentine it was 1.08 µm. In the group with apical resection with Er:YAG laser, no statistically significant difference in the gap size between the material and dentin was found in both studied materials: MTA - 1.88 µm, Biodentine - 1.32 µm. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, MTA and Biodentine showed good sealing capabilities after apical resection. Biodentine displayed better marginal adaptation when resecting the root tip using a turbine bur. The Er:YAG laser-assisted apical resection shows sealing of the open dentinal tubules around the resected root surface.

Success rate of orthograde endodontic retreatment after failed apicectomy - A retrospective study.

AIM: Orthograde retreatment after failed apicectomy maybe a treatment alternative to endodontic resurgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical outcome of orthograde endodontic retreatment after failed apicectomy. METHODOLOGY: Success was rated radiographically in 191 cases of orthograde retreatment after failed apicectomy that were treated in a private practice with a documented recall of at least 12 months. The radiographs were rated individually by two observers, in cases of disagreement a consensus was reached by joint discussion with a third observer. Success or failure were evaluated according to previously described criteria. The success rate and the median survival were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. The log rank test was used to evaluate the effect of prognostic factors/predictors. Hazard ratios of predictors were analysed using Univariate Cox Proportional Hazard regression analysis. RESULTS: The mean follow-up of the included 191 patients (124 females, 67 males) was 32.13 (±23.68) months and the median was 25 months. The overall recall rate was 54%. Cohen Kappa analysis revealed nearly perfect agreement between both observers (k = 0.81; p = 1.0). The overall percentage of success was 84.82% (complete healing 79.06%, incomplete healing 5.76%). The median survival was 86 months (95% CI: 56-86). None of the selected predictors had an influence on the treatment outcome (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Orthograde retreatment should be considered a valuable treatment option after failed apicectomy. A surgical endodontic retreatment can still be a treatment option after orthograde retreatment to obtain outcome for the patient.

Regeneration of a large bony lesion with advanced-platelet rich fibrin: case report / Regeneración de una lesión ósea de gran tamaño con fibrina rica en plaquetas: reporte de caso

Introduction: This case report analyzes the regeneration potential of advanced-platelet rich fibrin (A-PRF) in large bony lesions. Advanced-platelet rich fibrin provides various growth factors which aids in faster healing. Materials and Methods: Patient presented with peri-apical radiolucency. CBCT showed bony radiolucency in teeth 31, 32, 41, 42. A full mouth mucoperiosteal flap was raised and a cyst lining was enucleated. Apicoectomy was done with respect to 31, 32, 41, 42 along with and retrograde with a preparation of APRF clots were placed in the bony cavity. Results: Post-op CBCT at 6 months showed a significant difference in size and bone density of the lesion. Conclusions: Advanced-platelet rich fibrin has shown promising results in reducing the size of bony defect and periapical lesion in this case.

Introducción: Este caso clínico demuestra el potencial de regeneración de la fibrina rica en plaquetas avanzada (A-PRF) en lesiones óseas de gran tamaño. La fibrina rica en plaquetas avanzada proporciona varios factores de crecimiento que ayudan a una curación más rápida. Materiales y Métodos: El paciente se presentó con radiolucencia periapical. Tomografía computarizada de haz cónico mostró radiolucencia ósea en los dientes 31, 32, 41, 42. Se levantó un colgajo mucoperióstico de boca completa y se enucleó el revestimiento del quiste. Se realizó apicectomía con respecto a 31, 32, 41, 42, y se colocó una preparación de APRF se colocaron coágulos en la cavidad ósea. Resultados: La tomografía computarizada de haz cónico postoperatorio a los 6 meses mostró una diferencia significativa en el tamaño y la densidad ósea de la lesión. Conclusión: La fibrina rica en plaquetas avanzada ha mostrado resultados prometedores en la reducción del tamaño del defecto óseo y la lesión periapical en este caso.

Regeneración ósea con fibrina rica en plaquetas en una cirugía apical / Bone regeneration with platelet-rich fibrin in apical surgery

Introducción: La fibrina rica en plaquetas es una membrana o coágulo de fibrina, que brinda gran cantidad de factores de crecimiento, leucocitos y citoquinas. Esta es una buena alternativa para promover una mejor cicatrización, además de potenciar otros biomateriales con el fin de condicionar una mejor regeneración y en un menor período de tiempo. Su fácil preparación y manipulación, a diferencia de otros preparados plaquetarios, hacen que pueda ser usada en la práctica clínica diaria. Objetivo: Mostrar el manejo de una cirugía apical con aplicación de fibrina rica en plaquetas y su resultado clínico. Presentación de caso: Paciente de sexo femenino, de 47 años, con absceso apical crónico a nivel del segundo premolar superior derecho. Radiográficamente se observó una lesión apical persistente, el instrumento fracturado en uno de los conductos radiculares, el material de obturación sobreextendido y retenedor intrarradicular. Se decidió realizar cirugía apical con obturación retrógrada y relleno óseo en combinación con fibrina rica en plaquetas. Resultados: El paciente evolucionó de forma favorable y se evidenció cicatrización ósea en desarrollo, sin complicaciones. Conclusiones: La utilización de fibrina rica en plaquetas, en combinación de relleno óseo durante la cirugía endodóntica, es una buena alternativa por sus propiedades de regeneración ósea(AU)

Introduction: Platelet-rich fibrin is a fibrin membrane or clot, which provides a large amount of growth factors, leukocytes and cytokines. This is a good alternative to help better healing, in addition to enhancing other biomaterials in order to condition better regeneration and in a shorter period of time. Its easy preparation and handling, unlike other platelet preparations, mean that it can be used in daily clinical practice. Objective: To show the management of an apical surgery with the application of platelet-rich fibrin and its clinical result. Case report: This is the case of a female patient, 47 years old, with chronic apical abscess at the level of the upper right second premolar. Radiographically, a persistent apical lesion was observed, the instrument fractured in one of the root canals, the obturation material overextended, and the intraradicular retainer. It was decided to perform apical surgery with retrograde obturation and bone filling in combination with platelet-rich fibrin. Results: The patient evolved favorably and evidenced bone healing in development, without complications. Conclusions: The use of platelet-rich fibrin, in combination with bone filler during endodontic surgery, is a good alternative due to its bone regeneration properties(AU)

Accuracy of augmented reality-assisted vs template-guided apicoectomy - an ex vivo comparative study.

AIM: The aim of the present ex vivo study was to examine the accuracy of augmented reality-assisted apicoectomies (AR-A) versus template-guided apicoectomies (TG-A). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 40 apicoectomies were performed in 10 cadaver pig mandibles. Every pig mandible underwent two AR-A and two TG-A in molar and premolar teeth. A crossed experimental design was applied. AR-A was performed using Microsoft HoloLens 2, and TG-A using SMOP software. Postoperative CBCT scans were superimposed with the presurgical planning data. The deviation between the virtually planned apicoectomy and the surgically performed apicoectomy was measured. The primary (angular deviation [degrees]) and secondary (depth deviation [mm]) outcome parameters were measured. RESULTS: Overall, 36 out of 40 apicoectomies could be included in the study. Regarding the primary outcome parameter (angular deviation), there was no significant difference between AR-A and TG-A. The mean values were 5.33 degrees (± 2.96 degrees) in the AR-A group, and 5.23 degrees (± 2.48 degrees) in the TG-A group. The secondary outcome parameter (depth deviation) showed no significant difference between the AR-A group of 0.27 mm (± 2.32 mm) and the TG-A group of 0.90 mm (± 1.84 mm). In this crossed experimental design, both techniques overshot the target depth in posterior sites, as opposed to not reaching the target depth in anterior sites (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Augmented reality (AR) technology has the potential to be introduced into apicoectomy surgery in case further development is implemented.

Comparison of Static and Dynamic Navigation in Root End Resection Performed by Experienced and Inexperienced Operators: An In Vitro Study.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to compare the effects of static navigation (SN), a dynamic navigation system (DNS), and the freehand (FH) technique in root end resection and the differences between these effects according to the level of experience of the operator. METHODS: Maxillary models reconstructed with Mimics software (Materialise, Leuven, Belgium) were 3-dimensionally printed and divided according to the experimental technique (FH, SN, or DNS) and the operator (experienced or inexperienced). SN was designed using 3-matic Medical software (Materialise) and printed, and a surgical approach plan for DNS was established and performed using DCARER (Suzhou, China) software. The accuracy, efficiency, and safety of the resections were assayed. RESULTS: The length, angle, volume, and depth deviations of the root end resections were significantly lower in the SN and DNS group compared with the FH group. SN significantly improved the efficiency of both operators, whereas DNS only improved the efficiency of the inexperienced operator. No difference between the SN and DNS groups was found, except for the time required for the surgery. No mishaps occurred during surgery in the SN or DNS group. The number of mishaps with the FH technique when used by the inexperienced operator was significantly higher than that registered for the rest of the groups. No interaction effect between technique and operator experience level was detected. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of operator experience, both SN and DNS could improve the accuracy and safety of root end resection. SN significantly improved the chairside efficiency of both operators, whereas DNS was more helpful for the inexperienced operator.

Outcome of intentional replantation of endodontically treated teeth with periapical pathosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The purpose of the present review was to examine success, survival and failure following intentional replantation of endodontically treated teeth with existing periapical pathosis and to determine the factors that might affect the outcome of replantation. Clinical trials, longitudinal studies, case series with >10 cases and at least 1-year follow-up were included. The average rate of success following intentional replantation was 77.23%. Meta-analysis revealed the mean weighted survival to be 85.9% (95% CI: 79.6-91.2) Common complications include inflammatory root resorption (0%-27%) and ankylosis (0%-25%). Variables influencing successful outcome include extra alveolar dry time <15 min; root-end resection (2-3 mm) and cavity preparation (3 mm); manipulation of the tooth using the crown only; and use of an appropriate storage media. The review concludes that intentional replantation is a viable treatment option with acceptable survival rates for endodontically treated teeth with periapical pathosis.

Contribution of Endodontic Pathology to Persistent Orofacial Pain: A Case Report.

Identifying the etiology and correct diagnoses for long-standing orofacial pain can be very challenging, especially in patients who have both odontogenic and nonodontogenic pain. This case report describes the successful management of a complex case of chronic orofacial pain in a patient with nonodontogenic chronic pain conditions and a maxillary molar tooth with persistent periapical pathology after endodontic treatment. The debilitating orofacial pain began after initial nonsurgical root canal treatment of the maxillary molar 3 years before presenting to our clinic. The initial clinical and radiographic assessment by our multidisciplinary team found that there were potentially both peripheral endodontic pathology and central pain mechanisms contributing to the long-standing pain. The diagnosis was shared with the patient's neurologist, who prescribed gabapentin, a centrally acting analgesic, and partial pain reduction was achieved. The odontogenic component of the orofacial pain was then addressed, by treating the persistent periapical infection and buccal bone fenestration of the roots of the maxillary molar. Treatments included both nonsurgical retreatment and surgical endodontic therapy (including root resection, root-end preparation, and retrofilling), and each significantly improved the patient's ongoing orofacial pain. After the successful endodontic treatments, the patient reported minimal pain and normal oral function. The case report highlights the importance of systematically treating endodontic pathology in a patient with long-standing orofacial pain, with both odontogenic and nonodontogenic components.

Comparison of the Accuracy and Efficiency of a 3-Dimensional Dynamic Navigation System for Osteotomy and Root-end Resection Performed by Novice and Experienced Endodontists.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study is to investigate whether the 3-dimensional dynamic navigation system (3D-DNS) can improve experienced endodontists' (EEs') and novice endodontists' (NEs') accuracy and efficiency in osteotomy and root-end resection (RER) and to verify that the 3D-DNS enables NEs to perform osteotomy and RER as accurately and efficiently as EEs. METHODS: Seventy-six roots in cadaver heads were randomly divided into 4 groups: 3D-DNS-NE, 3D-DNS-EE, freehanded (FH)-NE, and FH-EE (all, n = 19). Cone-beam computed tomography scans were taken preoperatively and postoperatively. Osteotomy and RER were planned virtually in the X-guided software (X-Nav Technologies, Lansdale). Accuracy was calculated by measuring the 2-dimensional and 3D virtual deviations and angular deflection using superimposing software (X-Nav technologies). Efficiency was determined by the time of operation and the number of mishaps. RESULTS: Accuracy deviations were significantly fewer in the 3D-DNS-EE group than those in the FH-EE group (P < .05). We found less 2-dimensional and 3D accuracy deviations comparing the 3D-DNS-NE group to the FH-NE group (P < .05). The time required for osteotomy and RER with the 3D-DNS was ∼ ½ of that required for the FH method for both EEs and NEs (P < .05). We found no difference in the number of mishaps between the 3D-DNS and FH groups for EEs and NEs (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The 3D-DNS improved EEs' and NEs' accuracy and efficiency in osteotomy and RER. The NEs were as efficient as the EEs using the 3D-DNS. Notably, the 3D-DNS improved the NEs' accuracy compared to the FH method, but the 3D-DNS did not enable the NEs to perform osteotomy and RER as accurately as the EEs.

Endoscopic findings in periapical surgery. A cross-sectional study of 206 roots

Background: A study is made of the findings of high-magnification rigid endoscopy at the root end surface following apicoectomy of teeth subjected to periapical surgery.Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was made of patients subjected to periapical surgery at the Unitof Oral Surgery and Implantology (University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain) between 2011 and 2019. Followingapicoectomy, the root end surfaces were inspected, with the evaluation of untreated canals, isthmuses, craze lines,crack lines, opaque dentin and gaps. Likewise, an analysis was made of the association between patient age andthe tooth type and restoration and the presence of craze lines, cracks, opaque dentin and gaps.Results: The final sample consisted of 168 patients subjected to periapical surgery, with 177 operated teeth and206 roots. Untreated canals were observed in 14 roots (6.8%). Isthmuses were identified in 74 roots (35.9%),particularly in the mesial root of the lower first molar (94.1%). In turn, craze lines were identified in 8.3% of theroots, cracks in 3.9%, and gaps in 53.4%. The prevalence of opaque dentin was 78.3%, with a greater presence inposterior teeth (90.3% in premolars and 86.2% in molars) than in anterior teeth (50.6%) (p<0.001). Patient age andtooth restoration showed no correlation to the studied parameters.Conclusions: Craze lines and crack lines were observed in less than 10% of the roots, though opaque dentin wasidentified in 73% of the roots, particularly in posterior teeth, and gaps were found in over half of the canals. (AU)