An evaluation of ethical aspects concerning endodontic instrument fracture

The aim of this study was to address and analyze several ethical issues relating to the behavioral conduct of general practitioners and endodontists towards instrument fracture during root canal treatment. Data was collected from a group of general practitioners and endodontists and other specialist from other field who perform root canal treatment, using an open ended questionnaire, which was later reviewed and analyzed statistically using chi-square test. 88% of the respondents claimed to have encountered instrument fracture. 59.1% of the participants affirmed that they would inform the patient in case of an incident. 23.4% claimed to refer the case to an endodontists. The results of this survey indicated that most of the professional are still hesitant from informing the patient about the incident that occurred. This may be due to the fear that it might affect their day to day practice.