(PR36) 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-dimensionally–printed surgical guides (3DSGs) and dynamic navigation systems (DNS) are two of the more common guided techniques. The purpose of this study was to assess the level to which endodontists and endodontic residents are being trained on guided surgical techniques and incorporating these techniques into their surgical practice. A 30-question, layered, 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. 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. 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 (55%) report being unwilling to invest more than $5,000 in new technology. Most residencies (62%) are not teaching either guided surgical technique. While interest level appears high, guided endodontic microsurgery has not yet become mainstream in endodontic practice.