Retrospective record review: reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol pulpotomy: a retrospective study.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate pulpotomies completed without the use of a fixative, preservative, or astringent agent prior to placement of a reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE) sub-base in the pulp chamber and subsequent restoration.

METHODS

Clinical and radiographic data were collected from a private pediatric dental office in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The pulpotomy technique used involved: amputation of coronal pulp; radicular hemostasis via pressure with dry cotton pellet; placement of ZOE into the pulp chamber; and restoration with stainless steel crown or amalgam.

RESULTS

One-hundred-ninety primary molars in 116 children (follow-up=6-94 months; mean=35.8 months) met the inclusion criteria. The radiographic, clinical, and overall success rates were approximately 95%, 97%, and 94%, respectively. The most frequently observed pathologic pulpal response was furcation radiolucency (N=7, ∼4%). The patient's age at time of pulpotomy, restoration type, tooth type, arch, and location of treatment (in-office vs general anesthesia) were not statistically significant factors influencing the success of the reinforced ZOE pulpotomy technique.

CONCLUSION

The success rates indicate that the reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol pulpotomy technique may be an acceptable treatment modality for primary molars requiring vital pulp therapy.