Needle breakage following inferior alveolar nerve block: Implications and management

Abstract

Needle breakage following inferior alveolar nerve block is a rare complication in current dental practice. We report a case of delayed retrieval of a broken needle with the use of modern imaging modalities. In addition, possible causes of needle breakage and preventative measures, indications and timing of removal, localisation techniques and surgical approaches are discussed. © 2007 Nature Publishing Group.