Degradation of separated instruments with or without static navigation versus ultrasonic retrieval (An In-Vitro study)

Background: Proper debridement becomes the main concern in cases with separated instruments. Attempt to retrieve separated instruments should always be the main target for clinicians, however; a duplication of the complication could occur through further errors. Aim: The aim of the present study was to compare three methods for management of separated instruments. Which were: Instrument retrieval utilizing ultrasonic and Instrument degradation with or without static navigation. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on a total of 24 extracted intact humans’ teeth. Samples were divided into three groups (free hand, static navigation degradation and ultrasonic retrieval). Results: There was no statistically significant difference in success rate between the three groups. Overall, the success rate reached 87.5% while the failure rate was 12.5% due to some complications in samples. Regarding time, Guided navigation group recorded the shortest retrieval time. The ultrasonic group showed significantly the longest retrieval time. There was no significant difference between free hand and guided navigation groups. Lastly, the temperature rise in Free hand group recorded the highest temperature Guided navigation group showed lower temperature. The ultrasonic group showed the lowest temperature. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the three groups.Conclusion: The three methods tested in the present study were equally efficient in the management of the intracanal separated instruments. Ultrasonic retrieval is considered a lengthy procedure. Degradation of separated instruments with or without static navigation didn’t show much difference.