Main

Main C, Mirzayan N et al. J Endodon 2004; 30: 80–83

A significant problem with root perforation is the persistent inflammatory reaction in the adjacent tissues, and root perforation may account for 10% of all endodontic failures. Studies in vitro suggest that mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) reduces bacterial leakage more than other materials. The present study identified 16 patients treated with MTA for perforation and followed up for a minimum of 1 yr in a Californian endodontic residency programme.

Radiographs from before treatment, immediately after MTA repair, and 1 yr or more later were examined in a double blind manner by 3 examiners for any radiolucency more than double the width of the periodontal ligament. Subjects had also been examined for any periodontal defect extending to the perforation, and none was found. A radiolucency was found at the time of repair in 7 cases which were then followed for 12-45 months, when all had healed. In 9 cases without radiolucency at repair, no lesion developed over a subsequent period of 12-43 months.