The rationale:
Presentation of a case where using an endoscope aided the removal of a significantly displaced mandibular third molar.
Patient concerns:
Pain and infection associated with the ectopic wisdom tooth, increased risks with conventional surgical removal.
Diagnosis:
Chronic infection associated with the displaced, ectopic left lower third molar (LL8). Difficult surgical access and increased operative risk, with the tooth positioned lingually, below the lower border of the mandible.
Treatment:
Surgical removal was undertaken with the aid of a 30°-angled endoscope. This provided superior visualisation and allowed for a minimally invasive technique.
Outcomes:
The surgeon reported that the endoscope allowed for increased efficiency and ease of surgery. The patient experienced minimal postoperative pain and no long-term complications.
Take-away lessons:
Endoscopes can aid surgeons in cases with difficult access and increased risks. In this case, the endoscope allowed for a minimally invasive technique, minimising the risks of surgery, and reducing postoperative morbidity.