Management of Intracanal Separated File Fragment in a Four-Rooted Mandibular Third Molar

The success of endodontic therapy is attributed to complete arbitration of the bound entities concealed within the complexity and absolute disinfection of the root canal system, thus, deeming it mandatory to effectively negotiate and overcome the challenges posed by obstruction, either iatrogenic or anatomic. To achieve this, considerable depth of knowledge and expertise with reference to variations in root canal morphology and clinical mishap management is substantially as important as developing fine observation skills in conjunction with an appropriate armamentarium and a keen sense of determination, thereby enhancing one's clinical acumen by several folds. In the present case, following rubber dam isolation, the temporary restoration was removed, and the remaining carious dentin was excavated. Endodontic access cavity was refined and explored with a DG-16 probe, following which three separate canal orifices were identified in the pulp chamber floor (mesiobuccal, mesiolingual, and distal). On further observation under a surgical operating microscope and continuous exploration with the DG-16 probe, a fourth canal was found in the mesial aspect of the tooth (middle mesial). With instrumentation, it was confirmed that a fractured object was indeed present at the apical third of the mesiolingual root of tooth 38. Bypassing of the fractured fragment was initiated with a size 10 SS K-file coupled with copious irrigation with 3% sodium hypochlorite. In the present case report, four distinct canals comprising 3 mesial and 1 distal canal were recognized, and the fractured instrument in one of the canals was bypassed successfully.