Pulse Oximetry to Increase Success Rate of Replantation Procedure of Avulsed Teeth

The evaluation of pulp status following the replantation of avulsed immature permanent teeth is of paramount importance in determining the success of the procedure. A recent study, published in the National Library of Medicine, sheds light on the efficacy of pulse oximetry in this critical aspect of the procedure.

Traditionally, clinicians have relied on clinical and radiographic examinations for diagnosis. However, a prospective observational study, including 51 cases, suggests that incorporating pulse oximetry into the diagnostic tools may provide valuable assistance.

The study was conducted over a 1-year follow-up period. Seven teeth exhibited successful pulp revascularization, while 44 teeth failed to revascularize, leading to unfavorable outcomes. Notably, abnormalities in the failure group often surfaced at an average of 42.7 days post-replantation, coinciding with a high incidence of inflammatory root resorption (43.18%).

The use of pulse oximetry unveiled compelling insights into pulp status dynamics. Teeth in the success group exhibited a distinct pattern, with immediate post-replantation oxygen saturation values averaging at 70.71 ± 3.35. Subsequently, these values showed an upward trend, reaching a significantly increased final value of 81.86 ± 2.34 at the 1-year mark. Conversely, teeth in the failure group displayed no such increase, with abnormal clinical and/or radiographic manifestations emerging over time.

With further validation and integration into clinical practice, pulse oximetry could emerge as a cornerstone in the armamentarium of dental professionals, enhancing their ability to deliver timely and effective treatment.