Apicomarginal defects in periradicular surgery: classification and diagnostic aspects

The prognosis of periradicular surgery is affected by the amount and location of bone loss. Apicomarginal defects are localized bony defects encompassing the total root length, and periradicular surgery on these teeth is associated with a lower success rate. This paper reviews the etiology, pathogenesis, and morphology of apicomarginal defects as encountered in periradicular surgery on the basis of a series of 24 consecutively treated patients. Periodontal data were recorded before surgery in all patients, and apicomarginal defects were diagnosed after flap reflection or, if applicable, apicoectomy. On the basis of the findings in these cases and on theoretic considerations, a classification system for apicomarginal defects with potential therapeutic and prognostic implications is presented and several criteria for differential diagnosis are discussed.