Surgical Tip of the Week #2

How To Avoid IAN Injury - Grooving

A quality panoramic x-ray is sufficient when assessing possible IAN injury while removing third molars. Nine panoramic radiographic markers can reliably predict IAN injury. A CT is recommended when injury is likely.

PreviousNext

GROOVING

The inferior alveolar canal develops before third molar roots. Grooving of the third molar root is caused by a third molar root developing in close proximity to the IAN. Thinning of the developing root is caused by contact with the inferior alveolar canal. This condition, known as grooving, is indicated on radiographs by a radiolucent band where the canal crosses over the third molar root. The canal’s radiographic white lines are not visible on the radiograph. Grooving increases the possibility of IAN paresthesia.

IAN Injury Grooving

  • Flap
  • Trough
  • Section
  • Split
  • Remove
  • Debride & Irrigate
  • Close

Surgical Tip of the Week #14 – 7 Steps for Predictable Removal of Mandibular Third Molar Impactions

STEP 1 FLAP Many flap designs will work. The two most popular flaps for impacted third molars are the triangular and envelope. Western Surgical and Sedation recommends a large envelope flap starting distal to the second premolar (including papilla) and ending 1-1.5 cm...

Surgical Tip of the Week #13 – “S” Flap

"S" FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended flaps are the...

Surgical Tip of the Week #12 – Modified Triangle Flap

MODIFIED TRIANGLE FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended...

Surgical Tip of the Week #11 – Triangular Flap

TRIANGULAR FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended flaps...