Interesting Surgical Case

The patient presented for retreatment of tooth # 19. The tooth was percussion-sensitive and exhibited mesial root periapical radiolucency. Retreatment was completed in two visits. During the second visit, calcium hydroxide was removed using irrigation and ultrasonic activation. In the process, the ultrasonic tip separated and fell into the canal, exiting out of the apex. Since the patient was asymptomatic, they were informed of the incident and reassured, and the retreatment was completed. The patient returned about one month later, reporting occasional mild discomfort and requesting the removal of the broken instrument. An apicoectomy was performed. The patient returned for a one-year recall, showing complete apical healing with no clinical symptoms.