Current Trends in the Use of Guided Technology in Surgical Endodontics: A Web-based Survey
Abstract
The use of guided technology is emerging in the practice of surgical endodontics.3-dimensionallyprinted surgical guides (3DSGs) and dynamic navigation systems (DNS) are two of these guided techniques. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of exposure of endodontists and endodontic residents to guided surgical techniques and their incorporation of these techniques into their surgical practice. Materials: A 30-question web-based survey was distributed via email to 6,510 members of the American Association of Endodontists. Responses were collected over a period of two months and descriptive statistics were analyzed. Results: Data was obtained from 552 respondents (404 actively practicing endodontists, 107 in academia) for an overall response rate of 8.5%. 78% of members in the private practice setting reported doing fewer than 10 surgeries a month, and most of them do not perform surgeries on palatal roots of maxillary molars (52%) or mandibular second molars (73%). For these teeth, the most common treatment recommendation is extraction or performing a second retreatment. Only 6% of practicing endodontists currently report using 3DSGs (primarily for endodontic surgery) and 2% report using DNS (primarily for locating calcified canals). While the interest level in guided technology appears high (77% of practicing endodontists are at least somewhat interested in the use of guided technology for endodontic surgery), most (60%) report being unwilling to invest more than $5,000 in new technology. Most residencies (62%) are not teaching either guided surgical technique. Conclusions: While interest level appears high, guided endodontic microsurgery has not yet become mainstream in endodontic practice.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 31, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1186354
Entities
People
- Leah M Reimnitz
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences