Endodontic Therapy: the Operating Microscope

a variety of configurations and magnifications. With the aid of a fiberoptic headlamp system, light can be projected in the line of sight to prevent the creation of shadows in the surgical field and render optimal visualization of the treatment site. However, the magnification of loupes is limited (2.5 to 6.0 ) and their optics are convergent, which creates eye strain and fatigue. In order to address the limitations present in these devices, clinicians adopted new techniques and technologies. Otologists were the first medical specialists to utilize the operating microscope in a clinical environment. In 1921, Nylen performed a surgical procedure with the operating microscope. When Jannetta performed a procedure called microvascular decompression to treat trigeminal neuralgia, the event became the subject of controversy (to use or not to use the microscope) in the neurosurgical community. The surgical operating microscope (SOM) has been recently introduced in dentistry, specifically in endodontics, where increased magnification and illumination have resulted in improved technical accuracy and performance.