Alternative Approach to Prevent Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury in Lower Third Molar Surgery: A Pilot Study on Coronectomy

CONTEXT: Injury to inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in lower third molar (L3M) surgery may lead to unpleasant sensation or anesthesia of lower lip. Considering the quality of life of the patient and the litigations faced by the dentist, alternative treatment approaches to odontectomy have been studied by various researchers. Coronectomy is one such option to prevent the nerve injury. AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of coronectomy to reduce nerve injury during L3M surgery in high-risk cases as per radiological signs. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A pilot study was conducted in the oral surgery department of Rajah Muthiah Dental College, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, India to evaluate coronectomy and its usefulness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-five patients who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria for coronectomy were included in the study. The patients were followed up to 1-year period. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Descriptive statistics was used. RESULTS: None of the patients in the study group had IAN impairment. CONCLUSIONS: Coronectomy is a safe alternative for complete odontectomy in high-risk L3M surgery cases. Root migration, infection, and need for second surgery are potential complication. Further studies with more samples and variables need to be performed.