Aspiration of an impacted lower third molar during its surgical removal under local anaesthesia

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2007 Apr;36(4):362-4. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2006.08.011. Epub 2006 Nov 15.

Abstract

In this case of an aspirated impacted lower third molar during its removal under local anaesthesia, the problem was recognized immediately during the surgical procedure. The patient, a 23-year-old male, was subjected to urgent radiological examination. The aspirated tooth was detected in the right bronchus and eventually removed by rigid bronchoscopy. Oral surgeons should suspect any tooth that has been avulsed or extracted and not found as having been aspirated. Early diagnosis and management of such incidents is essential.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anesthesia, Dental*
  • Anesthesia, Local*
  • Bronchi
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Foreign Bodies / etiology
  • Foreign Bodies / therapy
  • Gagging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mandible / surgery
  • Molar, Third / surgery*
  • Respiratory Aspiration / etiology*
  • Respiratory Aspiration / therapy
  • Tooth Extraction / adverse effects*
  • Tooth, Impacted / surgery*