Removal of a maxillary third molar displaced into pterygopalatine fossa via intraoral approach

Abstract

the most common procedures performed in oral and maxillofacial surgery units with low rates of complications and morbidity [1–3]. Most frequently confronted complications are fracture of tuberosity, tooth root fracture, perforation of the maxillary sinus, prolapse of the buccal fat pad, and displacement of the roots or tooth into the maxillary sinus [3–5]. According to the literature, a few cases of accidental displacement of molars into adjacent anatomical spaces, such as the infratemporal fossa, the pterygomandibular space, the maxillary sinus, the buccal space, or the lateral pharyngeal space, during surgical interventions have been reported [3, 5, 6]. However this is the first reported case of maxillary third molar displaced into pterygopalatine fossa. The aim of this case report is to identify potential risk factors and to gather information on the prevention and treatment of this complication.