Paste technique re-treatment study: a clinical, histopathologic, and radiographic evaluation of 50 cases.

This study correlated clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic aspects of 50 endodontic failures involving the paste technique. All clinical and radiographic findings were recorded. The teeth were re-treated with gutta-percha/Kloroperka and lateral condensation. Subsequently, periapical surgery, including retrograde amalgam filling, was performed for the removal of material in the periapical tissue. The resulting biopsy specimens were processed for histologic evaluation. Although neutrophilic leukocytes predominated in some cases, all types of inflammatory cells were present. Macrophages and foreign body cells contained paste particles. The blood pigment distinguished hemorrhage due to surgery from pathologic circulatory changes. There was resorption/apposition of bone and root fragments. Epithelial strands and parts of cyst walls were observed. There was a correlation between a periapical radiolucency and inflammation but no correlation between amounts and types of inflammatory cells and pain. Paste placed beyond the foramen caused tissue damage and reduced prognosis.