Endodontic Resident Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia, United States
Separated instruments are one of the most common endodontic mishaps among general dentists and endodontists alike. Multiple options exist for retrieval of instruments, including Stieglitz forceps, ultrasonics, and braided Hedstrom. When a separated instrument’s most coronal end is visible above the orifice level the “lasso” technique serves as a viable option for predictable retrieval. The main benefits of this method are that it 1) is inexpensive and easy to assemble, 2) creates a tight grasp around the instrument when used correctly, and 3) lowers the occurrence of further complications, such as perforations or additional broken instruments. The aim of this table clinic is to demonstrate the assembly and use of these “lassos” with 20-gauge needles and 0.25 mm stainless steel ligature ties, typically used in orthodontics. The technique includes formation of a “loop” structure with the orthodontic wire that is fed through the large-gauge needle with loose ends extending from the hub of the needle. Once the “lasso” is properly oriented and placed around the separated instrument a standard hemostat is used to hold the loose ends and rolled until the loop is tightened. After a tight grip is confirmed the hemostats can be leveraged against an adjacent tooth with cotton between for protection. This table clinic will include relevant example cases, as well as materials to demonstrate and practice lasso assembly.
