NEEDLE BREAKAGE DURING DENTAL ANESTHESIA IN THE MAXILLA: REPORT OF A CASE AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT Needle breakage is an uncommon complication during dental anesthesia. It generally occurs in inferior alveolar nerve block; however rare cases during maxillary injections have also been reported. There are different causative factors for needle breakage most of which can be preventable. Advanced radiological techniques are helpful to detect the exact localization of the broken fragment. Surgical removal of the needle is recommended since the broken piece may move deeper through the tissues. Here we report a case of a broken needle during maxillary dental anesthesia as well as radiological features and surgical treatment. Furthermore, we aimed to review the current literature regarding needle breakage during dental anesthesia