PICKING UP A SEPARATED FILE WITH MAGNETIC FORCE

Abstract

Breakage of an instrument inside a root canal is an accident that can occur in endodontics, and removal of the broken instrument is essential in order to carry out appropriate root canal treatment. Combined use of a microscope and ultrasonics is useful as a removal method. If ultrasonic vibrations are applied to the broken instrument under microscopic observation, it can be seen that the grip of the broken instrument inside the root canal becomes weakened until it eventually jumps up and stays on the floor of the pulp chamber. In such cases, use of a magnetic tool rather than forceps to lift out the broken instrument is simple and convenient. In the two cases reported here, broken instruments were found in the lower right second molar and upper right lateral incisor, where root canal treatment had been carried out. Ultrasonic vibration was applied to the broken segments, which were then lifted out by magnetic force. Root canal treatment was subsequently continued. Following root canal filling and prosthetic placement, the patients’ progress was favorable.