Foreign body in the apical portion of a root canal in a tooth with an immature apex: a case report.

AIM: To describe the successful retrieval of a foreign object located in the apical portion of an immature root canal by simple orthograde techniques, avoiding the need for surgery or intentional reimplantation.
SUMMARY: A radio-opaque foreign object lodged in the apical portion of an immature root canal was discovered on radiographic examination of a patient with a complicated crown fracture. Attempts to retrieve it resulted in displacement into the periapical area. Eventually, the object was retrieved by a simple technique, followed by successful apexification, root canal filling and jacket crown placement. KEY LEARNING POINTS: Foreign bodies in root canals should be carefully evaluated to determine their nature, position, size and the degree of difficulty that may be encountered during retrieval. Patience, care and appropriate techniques may be helpful in retrieving foreign bodies and avoiding periapical surgery. Complicated crown fractures should be managed promptly, and prolonged open drainage avoided in children if the risks of foreign body impaction are to be minimized.