%0 Journal Article
%T Two-stage extraction by partial grinding of impacted mandibular third molar in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve.
%A Luo GM
%A Yao ZS
%A Huang WX
%A Zou LY
%A Yang Y
%J World J Clin Cases
%V 12
%N 10
%D 2024 Apr 6
%M 38660071
%F 1.534
%R 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i10.1728
%X BACKGROUND: Extraction of impacted third molars often leads to severe complications caused by damage to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN).
OBJECTIVE: To proposes a method for the partial grinding of an impacted mandibular third molar (IMM3) near the IAN to prevent IAN injury during IMM3 extraction.
METHODS: Between January 1996 and March 2022, 25 patients with IMM3 roots near the IAN were enrolled. The first stage of the operation consisted of grinding a major part of the IMM3 crown with a high-speed turbine dental drill to achieve sufficient space between the mandibular second molar and IMM3. After 6 months, when the root tips were observed to be away from the IAN on X-ray examination, the remaining part of the IMM3 was completely removed.
RESULTS: All IMM3s were extracted easily without symptoms of IAN injury after extraction.
CONCLUSIONS: Partial IMM3 grinding may be a good alternative treatment option to avoid IAN injury in high-risk cases.