During canal preparation, what is the initial management step if an instrument fractures?

• A. Continue instrumentation around the fragment
• B. Reassess radiographically after finishing the procedure
• C. Remove the tooth
• D. Stop instrumentation, reassess radiographically, attempt retrieval or bypass to continue cleaning; document

Answer: (D)

When an instrument breaks during canal preparation, the immediate priority is to stop instrumentation and reassess. This moment demands careful planning: take another radiograph or review images to locate the fragment and judge whether retrieval is feasible without causing further damage. If retrieval seems possible with appropriate techniques, attempt it; if not, bypass the fragment so you can continue cleaning and shaping the rest of the canal. Throughout, maintain canal patency and avoid forcing files that could push the fragment deeper or create damage. Finally, document everything—the fragment’s location and length, attempts at retrieval or bypass, radiographs, and the treatment plan—so the patient and future clinicians understand what happened and why.