(TC14) The Utility of 3D Printing in the Management of an Endodontic Microsurgery Case with Anatomical Complexity

Abstract:

Objective: This table clinic describes a technique to create a tangible, 3D-printed model from CBCT DICOM files, accurately reproducing surgical anatomy. It highlights its utility in planning an endodontic microsurgery in an anatomically complex mandibular premolar case, where the mental foramen was in close proximity to the surgical site, and discusses the final outcome. Technique: A 3D-printed model was created from a patient's CBCT DICOM file. Retractor grooves were carved into the model, and a mock osteotomy was performed. A suck-down stent was created over this model and was perforated in the areas of the retraction grooves and mock osteotomy. This stent was then used as a guide to safely place retraction grooves and initiate osteotomy during the surgical procedure. Once the osteotomy was performed, the microsurgical procedure was successfully completed.

Conclusion: A CBCT-derived 3D-printed model can be a valuable yet cost-effective tool for the clinician in terms of surgical efficiency and for the patient in terms of risk abatement during endodontic microsurgical procedures.