Retrieving a displaced third molar from the infratemporal fossa: case report of a minimally invasive procedure

The appropriate management of postoperative complication of wisdom teeth removal is of utmost importance as it can result in legal procedures. The accidental displacement of a maxillary third molar in the infratemporal fossa (ITF), is a rare complication that can occur even with experienced surgeons. The numerous retrieval techniques reported are invasive and provide an unpredictable access. Our aim was to achieve the safe and swift retrieval of the tooth displaced to an area of such complex anatomy.

We describe the case of a 17-year-old female patient whose right upper third molar was accidentally pushed upward to the ITF and became unreachable. Retrieval based on interventional radiology using the CT-guided placement of a bone trocar above the displaced tooth was successfully performed. The postoperative course was uneventful.

CT scan assisted interventional radiology provides both, real-time assessment of the tooth position through image refreshment, and steady stabilization of the displaced tooth. Therefore, it allows a safe and non-traumatic retrieval with a time-efficient procedure achieved through a minimally-invasive approach with inconspicuous scaring. We believe that such a procedure is an interesting treatment option for optimal outpatient care. To our knowledge, no such case has been previously described.