Surgical Tip of the Week #8
How To Avoid IAN Injury - Deflection of CanalA quality panoramic x-ray is sufficient when assessing possible IAN injury while removing third molars. Nine panoramic radiographic markers can reliably predict IAN injury. ACT is recommended when injury is likely.

DEFLECTION OF CANAL
Deflection of the IAN canal is a red flag radiographic marker. Since the tooth roots develop after the canal, the developing root can push on the canal causing deflection of the canal. This may indicate intimate contact of the third molar root with the IAN canal.
- Flap
- Trough
- Section
- Split
- Remove
- Debride & Irrigate
- Close