Robot-Assisted and Haptic-Guided Endodontic Surgery: A Case Report

J Endod. 2024 Apr;50(4):533-539.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2024.01.012. Epub 2024 Jan 26.

Abstract

There has been a significant increase in robot-assisted dental procedures in the past decade, particularly in the area of robot-assisted implant placement. The objective of this case report was to assess the initial use of the Yomi Robot's assistance and haptic guidance during endodontic microsurgery. The robot was used during the osteotomy and root-end resection of the first and second upper left premolars. The report aims to inform clinicians of the initial implementation of this cutting-edge technology in endodontics and its potential to enhance endodontic microsurgery. The Yomi Robot was used in performing osteotomy and root-end resection during apical surgery in a patient presenting with symptomatic upper left first and second premolars. The treatment procedure was decided after clinical examination, chart data, and radiographic examinations, which showed periapical lesions on both premolars, taking into consideration the failed endodontic retreatment on the first premolar, the post and ceramic coronal restorations on both teeth, and the desire of the patient to save them. The Yomi Robot system provides auditory, visual, and physical guidance to clinicians during surgery while using a cone-beam computed tomography scan for precision planning with greater accuracy and minimized potential for human error. Further studies are needed to prepare a protocol for robotic-guided procedures in endodontics.

Keywords: Apicoectomy; Yomi Robot; guided endodontic surgery; haptic-guided surgery; robot-assisted surgery; root-end surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bicuspid / diagnostic imaging
  • Bicuspid / surgery
  • Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
  • Endodontics* / methods
  • Haptic Technology
  • Humans
  • Robotics*
  • Root Canal Therapy / methods