Prognostic factors of clinical outcomes in endodontic microsurgery: A prospective study

Introduction This prospective study examined the potential prognostic factors of endodontic microsurgery and compared the predictors of an isolated endodontic lesion with those of both an isolated endodontic lesion and an endodontic-periodontal lesion. Methods Data were collected from the Microscope Center of the Department of Conservative Dentistry at the Dental College of Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea, between March 2001 and March 2011. A total number of 584 teeth were included, and all clinical procedures were performed by a single operator (E.K.). The evaluation was performed at least 1 year after surgery. For statistical analysis of the predisposing factors, the chi-square test and logistic regression were performed. Results Of the 584 cases treated, 431 cases came for recall after a period of at least 12 months. Sex (female), tooth position (anterior), arch type (maxilla), and lesion type (isolated endodontic lesion) were found to have a positive effect on surgical outcome. With regards to isolated endodontic lesions, the tooth position (anterior), arch type (maxilla), and type of restoration (single/splinted crown, short bridge, and removable partial denture abutment) were found to be pure positive predictors. Conclusions In endodontic microsurgery, it is likely that preoperative factors, particularly the tooth position and arch type, have a greater influence on the healing outcome than intra- and post-operative factors.