Removal of a separated endodontic instrument by using the modified hollow tube–based extractor system: A case report

Abstract

The frequency of separation of NiTi rotary instruments has increased with the increasing use of these instruments, and this error may result from inadequate experience of using these instruments. This iatrogenic error can complicate root canal treatment, and special experience is required to manage this problem. This case report describes the management of the separation of an F3 instrument from a ProTaper NiTi rotary system. A 30-year-old man was referred to the College of Dentistry, Taibah University (Saudi Arabia) with an intracanal separated NiTi rotary instrument (F3 of the ProTaper system; Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) in the canal of the maxillary right canine. The separated instrument was removed by using the modified hollow tube–based extractor system. The present case revealed that sometimes a simple method can be an effective alternative of a professional method; using NiTi rotary instruments with strict adherence is important for the prevention of instrument separation.