coronectomy
Pronunciation: kor-oh-NEK-toh-mee
Surgical removal of the crown portion of a tooth while intentionally leaving the roots in place, typically performed for high-risk impacted third molars.
Full Definition
Coronectomy is a conservative surgical technique used primarily for the management of mandibular third molars that are in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve. The procedure involves sectioning and removing only the crown of the tooth while deliberately retaining the roots in situ. This approach significantly reduces the risk of inferior alveolar nerve injury compared to complete tooth extraction while eliminating the pathology associated with the impacted crown.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from decoronation, which typically refers to crown removal in trauma cases.
In Context
- "A coronectomy was performed on the impacted wisdom tooth to avoid potential nerve damage." — Informed consent documentation
- "Post-coronectomy radiographs showed successful root migration away from the nerve canal." — Follow-up examination note