Pulpotomy in primary teeth: review of the literature according to standardized criteria.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the relevant literature using a modification of the criteria listed in the introductory paper to this issue [Curzon and Toumba, 2006], and to review several new publications on pulpotomies with different materials and techniques that appeared after previously published reviews.


METHODS
A search of the literature on pulpotomies was identified using Medline between the years 1966-2005. The search generated 358 citations and sieving of these papers was conducted by examining the paper title and assessing its relevance [Loh et al., 2004]. Only clinical studies (non-specified) and retrospective studies were included for assessment. There were 17 criteria (considered major) weighed 2 points and 8 criteria weighed 1 point. A paper that would score between 38-42 points (90+ %) was assessed as Grade A, a score from 32 to 37 points (75-89%) was Grade B1, and between 25 to 31 points (60-74%) Graded B2. All other papers that reached 24 points or less (less than 59%) was rated Grade C.


RESULTS
Of the 358 papers originally identified 48 clinical trials were evaluated according to the set of criteria. There was only one paper graded A, 5 papers graded B1, 3 graded B2 and 39 received a grade C. Formocresol or ferric sulphate medicaments were found to be likely to have similar clinical/radiographic results, and MTA seemed to be a more favourable pulp dressing.


CONCLUSIONS
No conclusion can be made as to the optimum treatment or technique for pulpally involved primary teeth. More high quality, properly planned prospective studies are necessary to clarify these points.
Fuks
A B
AB
Department Pediatric dentistry, Hebrew University, Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerulsalem, Israel. fuks@cc.huji.ac.il
Papagiannoulis
L
L
D015706:Bibliometrics; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D007598:Journalism, Dental / Q000592:standards; D011672:Pulpotomy / Q000379:methods*; D012015:Reference Standards; D014094:Tooth, Deciduous