Endodontic microsurgery utilizing an autonomous robotic system for the maxillary second molar: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Surgical Robotics
• Endodontics

Background:

• Endodontic microsurgery (EMS) is vital for periapical periodontitis unresponsive to root canal treatment.
• Complex anatomy, especially in second molars, challenges precise apex location and resection in manual EMS.
• Autonomous robotic (ATR) systems offer automation, precision, and stability to overcome manual EMS limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the successful application of robot-assisted EMS in a complex maxillary second molar case.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ATR system in challenging endodontic microsurgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• A patient with chronic periapical periodontitis underwent robot-assisted EMS on a maxillary second molar.
• DentalNavi software planned the precise drilling path, integrating optical tracking and a computerized system for autonomous resection.
• The robotic arm performed autonomous mesiobuccal root resection, with the distobuccal root addressed via freehand operation guided by the robot.

Main Results:

• The ATR system facilitated accurate and autonomous root resection, avoiding damage to the maxillary sinus.
• No intraoperative complications were reported during the procedure.
• Six-month follow-up showed satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes, indicating successful treatment.

Conclusions:

• The ATR system provides an accurate, safe, and minimally invasive approach for osteotomy and apicoectomy.
• Robot-assisted EMS is a promising technique for managing complex posterior endodontic microsurgery cases.
• This technology offers a reliable solution for anatomically challenging endodontic microsurgical procedures.