[Clinical evaluation for coronectomy of the impacted mandibular third molars in close proximity to inferior alveolar nerve].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the outcome of coronectomy for management of impacted mandibular third molars in close proximity to inferior alveolar nerve (IAN).

METHODS

Ten patients with impacted mandibular third molars which approached or was close to the inferior alveolar nerve diagnosed on panoramic film and cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan were included in the study. Coronectomy was conducted at the cemento-enamel junction, leaving the roots below the alveolar crest and primary closure was performed. After the root apex was pushed away from the inferior alveolar nerve, the impacted lower third molar was then removed.

RESULTS

Ten patients had little post-operative pain and swelling, none of them had IAN injury or infection. Only 1 patient was failed to move the roots away from IAN and the roots were left in the alveolar socket, but without any symptoms and side effects during 1 year of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronectomy is effective in controlling inferior alveolar nerve injury following third molar surgery in radiographically evaluated high risk cases and it has very low incidence of complications.