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Accidental intraoral formalin injection: a rare case report
Ramakant Dandriyal1, Kolly Yada Giri1, Sarwar Alam1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Institute of Dental Sciences , Bareilly, India.
Clinics and Practice
|January 9, 2015
Summary
Accidental formalin injection during dental procedures can occur. This case report details the successful management of formalin injected into the pterygomandibular space via debridement and medication.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Dental Anesthesiology
- Chemical Safety
Background:
- Formalin, a formaldehyde solution, is utilized in dentistry for its disinfectant and tissue-fixing properties.
- Distinguishing between formaldehyde and formalin is crucial due to differing concentrations.
- Improper handling of formalin can lead to hazardous incidents in clinical settings.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old woman accidentally received a formalin injection instead of local anesthetic during an inferior alveolar nerve block.
- The injection targeted the pterygomandibular space during the surgical removal of an impacted lower right third molar.
Findings:
- The case involved a misidentification or mix-up between formalin and local anesthetic.
- Successful management was achieved through cautious surgical debridement under local and general anesthesia.
- Empirical drug therapy, including analgesics and antibiotics, was administered post-procedure.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical importance of accurate chemical identification and handling in dental practice.
- Demonstrates a viable management strategy for accidental formalin injections in the maxillofacial region.
- Underscores the need for enhanced safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in surgical settings.
