title: Autotransplantation of immature third molars using a computer-aided rapid prototyping model: a report of 4 cases.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Autotransplantation of immature teeth can be an option for premature tooth loss in young patients as an alternative to immediately replacing teeth with fixed or implant-supported prostheses. The present case series reports 4 successful autotransplantation cases using computer-aided rapid prototyping (CARP) models with immature third molars.
  
  
  METHODS
  The compromised upper and lower molars (n = 4) of patients aged 15-21 years old were transplanted with third molars using CARP models. Postoperatively, the pulp vitality and the development of the roots were examined clinically and radiographically. The patient follow-up period was 2-7.5 years after surgery.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The long-term follow-up showed that all of the transplants were asymptomatic and functional. Radiographic examination indicated that the apices developed continuously and the root length and thickness increased. The final follow-up examination revealed that all of the transplants kept the vitality, and the apices were fully developed with normal periodontal ligaments and trabecular bony patterns.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Based on long-term follow-up observations, our 4 cases of autotransplantation of immature teeth using CARP models resulted in favorable prognoses. The CARP model assisted in minimizing the extraoral time and the possible Hertwig epithelial root sheath injury of the transplanted tooth.
authors.affiliation: Microscope Center, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Oral Science Research Center, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
authors.forename: Ji-Hyun
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Jang
authors.forename: Seung-Jong
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: Euiseong
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kim
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D064592:Autografts / Q000637:transplantation*; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods; D003782:Dental Pulp / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D008963:Molar / Q000601:surgery; D008964:Molar, Third / Q000637:transplantation*; D009805:Odontogenesis / Q000502:physiology; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010485:Periapical Periodontitis / Q000628:therapy; D010513:Periodontal Ligament / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted; D019227:Tooth Apex / Q000254:growth & development; D014081:Tooth Extraction / Q000379:methods; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000254:growth & development; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Autotransplantation; Hertwig epithelial root sheath; computer-aided rapid prototyping model; continued root development; extraoral time; immature third molar