Retrieval of a Separated Instrument using Combination of Ultrasonics and Braiding Technique- A Case Report

The fracture of endodontic instruments represents a procedural error that poses a significant challenge to root canal therapy. A separated instrument, especially a broken file, obstructs the root canal and hinders effective cleaning and shaping. When bypassing the separated instrument proves difficult, mechanical devices should be employed for retrieval. With minimal equipment and patience, it is feasible to recover the separated instrument from the canal. The application of ultrasonics in endodontics has demonstrated reliability in retrieving broken instruments from the root canal. Ultrasonic tips can effectively loosen the instrument fragment, which can then be removed using the Braiding technique. This case report illustrates both the successful retrieval of a separated instrument and a failure case using the same method, providing insight into its advantages and limitations.