Removal of Deeply Impacted Mandibular Molars by Sagittal Split Osteotomy

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Impacted mandibular third molars are common, with rare presentations like "kissing molars" (oppositely directed roots in a shared follicle) and supernumerary fourth molars.
• Extraction of deeply impacted mandibular molars often requires extensive bone removal, increasing risks of inferior alveolar nerve injury and mandibular fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application of the sagittal split osteotomy technique for the surgical extraction of multiple impacted mandibular teeth.
• To demonstrate how this technique can mitigate complications associated with deeply impacted molar removal.

Main Methods:

• A case report detailing the surgical procedure for extracting impacted mandibular molars.
• Utilized the sagittal split osteotomy technique to access and remove the impacted teeth while preserving vital anatomical structures.

Main Results:

• Successful surgical extraction of multiple impacted mandibular teeth, including a rare kissing molar configuration and a supernumerary fourth molar.
• The sagittal split osteotomy technique facilitated the procedure, avoiding excessive bone removal and protecting the inferior alveolar nerve.

Conclusions:

• The sagittal split osteotomy is a valuable technique for managing complex cases of multiple impacted mandibular molars.
• This approach can enhance surgical outcomes by reducing the risk of nerve damage and mandibular fractures during impacted molar extraction.