Management of broken file in atresic canals

Fig. 1

A patient came to our endodontic clinic for evaluation and treatment of tooth 4.6, on which endodontic treatment had been attempted months earlier. Symptoms on examination were: positive percussion, negative palpation, negative vitality and physiological probing. Radiographic examination revealed a previously initiated root canal treatment, a fractured instrument in the mesiovestibular canal and calcific metamorphosis of the canal system. The diagnosis was symptomatic apical periodontitis, after discussing treatment options, we decided to perform orthograde treatment. The patient was informed of the pros and cons of the treatment and signed the informed consent.

Fig. 2

After anaesthesia and isolation of the operative field, cavity access was performed. Four canals were located, using a DG16 endodontic explorer, two in the mesial root and two in the distal root. In the mesiovestibular canal we located the fractured instrument. In this phase we used an operating microscope (CJ OPTIK, Ablar, Germany) and redefined the access cavity with ultrasonic tips.

Fig. 3

We proceed to the removal of the broken file using the loop technique   following this process:

We expose the instrument with ultrasonic tips.

Fig. 4

File eposed

Fig. 5

We create a working platform over the fractured instrument with small calibre ultrasonic tips and wet canal with EDTA 17% liquid.

Fig. 6

Working Platform

Fig. 7

We release the fractured instrument and created a space of at least 1 mm around the instrument.

Fig. 8

We position the loop around the instrument.

Fig. 9

Close the loop and make traction movements until the broken file is removed.

Fig. 10

Once the instrument fragment has been removed, we proceed with the endodontic treatment.

We performed an exploration of the root canals with C+ ISO 10 files and measured the working length using an electronic apex locator and checked it against parallel periapical radiographs.

Once a correct glide path was created, we proceeded to instrument the  canals to (25-06). . Between file and file we used 5.25% sodium hypochlorite as irrigant, using the IrriFlex tip for its delivery.

Fig. 11

We check the working length before sealing the canals.

Fig. 12

Once all the canals have been instrumented, apical permeability and working length have been checked, we proceed to the final irrigation of the canal system. For this step we use 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, physiological saline solution and EDTA 17% solution.

Fig. 13

After shaping and disinfection of canal system, we proceed to dry and fill using  continuous  wave technique, ensuring a correct 3D seal.

Fig. 14

Once the obturation has been made and checked to be correct, we continue with the immediate sealing  with adhesive technique and Bulk Fill composite, after light curing we place provisional cement and we return to the referrer for definitive restoration.