Digitally planned root end surgery with static guide and custom trephine burs: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Apicoectomy is an endodontic surgical intervention that requires high precision. The computer-assisted static guided approach has proven to increase the precision of dental implantation in a significant manner. The authors sought to transfer this precision to root-end resection with the use of custom designed trephine burs manufactured specifically for use in targeted endodontic microsurgery. Methods: A set of custom bone trephines were designed and manufactured, then their digital models were integrated into an already existing implant surgical planning software, in cooperation with the software developer. Apicoectomy was performed in an actual case with the help of the new system. Results: It has become possible to plan root end removal in the virtual space and to manufacture 3D printed static surgical guides to help the execution of the surgery. A patient with persistent periapical lesion was successfully treated without complication. The 6-month follow-up found uneventful healing. Conclusion: The presented system is a step toward a standardized digital system and workflow dedicated to guided endodontic surgery.