Coronectomy of impacted mandibular third molars: A meta-analysis and systematic review of the literature

Abstract

BackgroundCoronectomy is an alternative to complete removal of an impacted mandibular third molar. Most authors have recommended coronectomy to prevent damage to the inferior alveolar nerve during surgical extraction of lower third molars. The present study offers a systematic review and metaanalysis of the coronectomy technique.Material and MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis was performed based on a PubMed and Cochrane databases search for articles published from 2014 and involving coronectomy of mandibular third molars located near the inferior alveolar nerve canal, with a minimum of 10 cases and a minimum follow-up period of 6 months. After application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 12 articles were included in the study.Results and DiscussionCoronectomy results in significantly lesser loss of sensitivity of the inferior alveolar nerve and prevents the occurrence of dry socket. No statistically significant differences were observed in the incidence of pain and infection between coronectomy and complete surgical extraction. After coronectomy, the remaining tooth fragment migrates an average of 2 mm within two years.ConclusionsCoronectomy is indicated when the mandibular third molar is in contact with the inferior alveolar nerve and complete removal of the tooth may cause nerve damage. Key words:Coronectomy, included third molar, inferior alveolar nerve injury.

Influence of acquisition parameters on the evaluation of mandibular third molars through cone beam computed tomography

“…This aspect is of great relevance for surgeons, since previous studies have reported that an intimate relationship between the tooth and the canal may influence the decision to perform an alternative procedure (i.e., a coronectomy). 16,17 Our results have verified those of earlier reports concerning the influence of voxel size on the assessment of anatomic and pathologic features of the oral and maxillofacial region (periodontal defects, root fractures, root resorptions, and erosion in the temporomandibular joint). [18][19][20][21][22] Other studies, however, have not been able to identify any relevant influence of voxel size on image assessment.…”

Are coronectomy studies being cited? A bibliometric study

“…In 1989, Knutsson et al first described coronectomy as a viable surgical option for lower third molars with a high risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury . It removes only the crown of a lower third molar and leaves the remaining root within the dentoalveolar bone.…”

“…In 1989, Knutsson et al first described coronectomy as a viable surgical option for lower third molars with a high risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury. [1][2][3][4] It removes only the crown of a lower third molar and leaves the remaining root within the dentoalveolar bone. This treatment option has been proven in randomized clinical trials to be effective in preventing inferior alveolar nerve injury, and is also safe in the long term with only minimal postoperative morbidity.…”

Third mandibular molar coronectomy: a way to prevent iatrogenic inferior alveolar nerve injuries—an systematic review

“…-3 meta-analyses [11,12] -4 randomized controlled trials [13,14] -5 nonrandomized controlled trials [6,16] -6 prospective cohort follow-up studies [9,[17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24] -7 retrospective studies [25][26][27] -8 randomized controlled trial without statistical analysis [15].…”