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Cysts and tumors associated with impacted third molars: is prophylactic removal justified?
Panagiotis Stathopoulos1, Michalis Mezitis, Constantinos Kappatos
1Oral and Maxillofacial Department, General Hospital of Attica, Athens, Greece. pan_stath@yahoo.gr
Purpose:
The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine the frequency and type of cysts and tumors related to impacted third molars (ITMs) in Greek patients. Indications, complications, risks, and benefits of ITM removal are also discussed.
Patients And Methods:
Over a 12-year period, 7,782 third molars were removed in 6,182 patients.
Results:
Of the 417 specimens submitted for histopathologic examination, 167 cysts (40.04%) and 48 tumors (11.5%) were found.
Conclusion:
Surgical removal of ITMs should only be performed in the presence of specific indications. Our study confirmed that the incidence of pathologic conditions related to ITMs is relatively low (2.77%).
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