Coronal pulpotomy for cariously exposed permanent posterior teeth with closed apices: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesThis systematic review was performed to evaluate the clinical outcome of coronal pulpotomy treatment to manage carious vital pulp exposure in permanent posterior teeth with closed root apices.Data/SourcesPRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline was used. A search of articles published between 1960 January and 2015 July was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases.Study selectionOnly studies that performed full coronal pulpotomy for carious vital pulp exposure of permanent posterior teeth and had clinical and radiographic assessments during at least one-year follow-up were qualified for data analyses. The weighted mean success rate (WSR) was the primary outcome and estimated using DerSimonian-Laird random effects model. Out of 299 articles, six studies were included for the analysis of one-year WSR, and five studies were included in the analysis of two-year WSR. The one-year and two-year WSR were 94% (95% confidence interval (CI): [90,99]) and 92% (CI: [84,100]) respectively. Differences in pulp capping and restoration materials did not significantly affect success rates (Two-year WSR in the MTA and MTA-like products group vs. the calcium hydroxide group: 92% (CI: [85,99]) vs. 88% (CI: [76,100]); the amalgam group vs. the composite group: 92% (CI: [81,100]) vs. 93% (CI: [81,100])).ConclusionsGenerally, full coronal pulpotomy had a favorable success rate in treating carious vital pulp exposure of permanent mature teeth with closed root apices. More studies with control group of root canal treated teeth and longer follow-up periods are needed.Clinical significanceCoronal pulpotomy treatment can be considered as an intermediate treatment option in managing carious vital pulp exposures of permanent teeth with closed root apices. This option may also serve as a substitute to extraction when root canal treatment cannot be performed for low income and uninsured patients or in underserved areas.