Targeted Endodontic Microsurgery: Implications of the Greater Palatine Artery
Abstract
Introduction: Targeted Endodontic Microsurgery (TEMS) combines trephine burs and 3D-printed guides to make flapless maxillary palatal root-end surgery possible. This study assessed the location of the greater palatine artery (GPA), the relationship of the GPA to maxillary molar root-ends, and the feasibility of flapless palatal-approach TEMS. Methods: Three endodontists analyzed 250 CBCT images of maxillary molars for: 1) transition morphology between the hard palate and the alveolar process adjacent to first and second molars as an indication of the most likely location of the GPA, 2) the superior-inferior relationship between the GPA and root-ends, and 3) the feasibility of palatal-approach TEMS.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1110873
Entities
People
- Allen M. Pratt
- Bracken G. Smith
- Jarom J. Ray
- Julie A. Anderson
Organizations
- 59th Medical Wing