The Impact of 3D-CBCT Imaging on Nerve Injuries During Wisdom Tooth Surgery

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN · Feb 7, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using a special 3D scan of the jaw can help reduce the risk of nerve injuries during wisdom tooth surgery. Nerve injuries can lead to problems like pain, tingling, or numbness in the lip, chin, and tongue, making it difficult to eat or speak. Currently, doctors use traditional 2D X-rays to see the position of the nerves and teeth, but it's not clear whether these images are as effective as 3D scans in preventing nerve damage.

To participate in this trial, you need to be at least 16 years old and have a wisdom tooth that needs to be surgically removed. You should also be able to consent to participate in the study and understand English well enough to read the information and answer follow-up questions. If you decide to join, you can expect to receive either a 2D or 3D scan before your surgery, and a follow-up call one week later to check on your recovery. This trial is currently looking for volunteers, and your participation could help improve the safety of future wisdom tooth surgeries.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Individuals are seen in the Oral Surgery department with a 2D-OPG x-ray and a diagnosis of a mandibular wisdom tooth that requires surgical treatment.
• • 2. Individuals requiring a 3D-CBCT to further assess the relationship between the wisdom tooth and the inferior alveolar nerve.
• • 3. Individuals who are to undergo surgical treatment for their wisdom tooth regardless of the surgical approach (e.g. coronectomy or extraction) or the anaesthetic technique utilised.
• • 4. Individuals without any pre-existing neurological deficit of cranial nerve V (trigeminal nerve) or medical conditions or medications that may cause changes in neurosensory function.
• • 5. Individuals over the age of 16 and willing and able to provide valid informed consent for themselves.
• • 6. Individuals with adequate English comprehension to read the written PIS and consent form and understand the follow-up call questions.
• • 7. Individuals willing to provide contact details to allow a telephone follow-up call one week after their surgery.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Individuals who do not have the capacity to consent for themselves.
• • 2. Individuals taking medicines or having medical conditions and disorders that impair neurosensory function.
• • 3. Individuals requiring wisdom tooth surgery to manage associated pathology such as cysts, fractures, or tumours where the pathological condition may interfere with the neurosensory function of the trigeminal nerve at 1 week post-operatively.
• • 4. Individuals who are unable to read or speak English.