The use of the endoscope in endodontic surgery: A systematic review

Endodontic apical surgery with novel endoscope: Three-case series

Successful apical surgery relies on effective magnification and illumination. In the field of endodontics, the microscope has emerged as the predominant tool for meeting these requirements. The rigid endoscope is also a valuable instrument in apical surgery. This study introduces three cases demonstrating the application of endoscope technology in endodontic apical surgery. The first case employs a soft endoscope for treating an anterior tooth with apical periodontitis, the second integrates an endoscope with new attachments for a premolar, and the third combines an endoscope, attachments and navigation for the lower first molar surgery. It revealed that endoscopes offer certain advantages that are not achievable with microscope-assisted surgery, these cases had a great outcome. In the future, a broader application of endoscopic technology in various procedures is anticipated.

Ultrasonic osteotomy and regeneration with A-PRF+ for periapical surgery of a mandibular molar with root cyst perforating the lingual osseous cortex: A case report

Background

Periapical surgery is a complex dental procedure that remains a considerable challenge in clinical practice. The use of APRF+ membranes and piezoelectric osteotomy help to improve outcomes and increase the efficiency and speed of recovery.

Material and Methods

This case report describes a 20 years-old man with a periapical lesion which perforated the lingual cortex in a lower mandibular molar. A periapical surgery was performed with endoscope magnification and ultrasonic osteotomy. Apicectomy and retrograde cavities were performed using a piezoelectric scalpel and sealed using a bioceramic sealer. The osteolytic defect was filled with A-PRF+ membranes and the bone cortex was repositioned trough a micro-screw.

Results

The histological analysis concluded an inflammatory odontogenic cyst. The postoperative period was uneventful with pain and mild oedema until the fourth day. Short-term follow-up showed the beginnings of bone regeneration and correct healing of the surgery without periodontal defects. Two-year follow-up showed favorable results and regeneration of the bone defect.

Conclusions

Periapical surgery with magnification, ultrasonic osteotomy repositioning and application of A-PRF+ membranes as an adjuvant proved to be an effective approach for the regeneration of the osteolytic process, allowing the preservation of the tooth. Promising short and long-term results were shown for this case report. Key words:Periapical surgery, osteotomy, ultrasound, A-PRF+.

Perception and practices of Operative and Endodontic specialists in Pakistan towards the use of dental magnification

BACKGROUND

The perceptions and trends of magnification use in dentistry need to be determined since magnification significantly enhances clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

To assess perception and practices of Operative and Endodontic specialists currently working in Pakistan, regarding use of magnification.

METHODS

A structured questionnaire administered for this analytical cross-sectional study recorded demographics, trends of magnification devices used in practice and their perceived advantages and disadvantages by the specialists with close-ended questions and three-point Likert scale.

RESULTS

Out of 91 forms, 77 responses were received (response rate of 84%). Most participants had 1-4 years of practical experience, were employed at both faculty and clinical positions, were more interested in operative/restorative procedures and used TLL (through the lens loupes) at low magnification. Use of magnification devices was learnt mostly during post-graduate training and was used daily or weekly for complicated cases. Noteworthy perceptions included improved treatment quality and standard of care. However, they were also perceived as irritating, increasing treatment time, with adverse effect on eyesight with prolonged use. No statistically significant correlation was found between the variables recorded (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Most specialists used magnification devices in some form and were abreast with their advantages. Proper training and continued dental education courses can help dispel any observed misapprehensions.

Periapical Microsurgery with an Endoscope and Microscope of Two Upper Central Incisors Already Subjected to Periapical Surgery 25 Years Ago

INTRODUCTION

The present clinical case describes periapical microsurgery with an endoscope and microscope in a patient already treated 25 years ago due to persistent periapical disease of the two central upper incisors, restored with poorly adapted crowns. Clinical Case. The first periapical surgery had been performed with silver amalgam as a retrograde filler material, causing grayish staining of the buccal mucosa. Periapical surgery was performed raising a submarginal flap with ostectomy and apicoectomy, retrograde cavity preparation with ultrasound tips, and filling with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). After soft tissue healing and complete bone regeneration of the lesion, retreatment of the incisors with a fixed prosthesis was carried out, adopting the biologically oriented preparation technique (BOPT).

CONCLUSIONS

The described periapical microsurgery approach with magnification and illumination of the surgical field was found to be effective, avoiding the need to extract the two central upper incisors.