Broken Instrument Removal from Mandibular First Molar with Cone-beam Computed Tomography based Pre-operative Computer-assisted Simulation: A Case Report

Intracanal separation of nickel titanium files hinders complete shaping, cleaning, and filling of the root canal system and ultimately influences the endodontic treatment outcome. In this case report, we presented a successful broken instrument retrieval from the middle third of the mesiobuccal root canal of tooth #30 with the assistance of cone-beam computed tomography based preoperative computer-assisted simulation, micro-trepan bur and micro-tube from Micro-Retrieve & Repair system and dental operative microscope. The involved tooth was then successfully cleaned, shaped and obturated followed by coronal restoration. At the three-year follow-up, tooth #30 was asymptomatic and functioned well without radiographic changes. The present case provides an example to show the robustness of computer-assisted technology in dental procedures and to show how the combination of advanced techniques can facilitate root canal therapy.