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Rare Complication in Third Maxillary Molar Extraction: Dislocation in Infratemporal Fossa
Andrea Battisti1, Paolo Priore, Filippo Giovannetti
1Department of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 15, 2017
Summary
Dislodged third molars into the infratemporal fossa (IF) are rare but challenging. An endoscopic transoral approach offers a safe and effective solution for impacted maxillary third molar removal, minimizing complications.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Endoscopic Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Impacted third maxillary molar extraction is common, but complications like tooth displacement into the infratemporal fossa (IF) are rare and difficult to manage.
- Accidental dislocation of a third molar into the IF presents significant surgical challenges.
Observation:
- A 28-year-old female patient experienced tooth loss into the IF during attempted extraction, resulting in limited mouth opening, facial swelling, and pain.
- Computed tomography confirmed the maxillary third molar's dislocation into the infratemporal fossa.
Findings:
- An endoscopic transoral approach was utilized to directly visualize and retrieve the dislodged third molar from the IF.
- This technique allowed for early surgical intervention with constant visual control, addressing potential further displacement.
Implications:
- The endoscopic transoral approach provides a direct view of the infratemporal fossa, reducing risks of bleeding and nerve injury associated with dislodged third molar removal.
- This method offers a less morbid solution for managing rare but complex cases of third molar displacement into the IF.
