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Mastering Separated Instrument Retrieval with Dr. Yoshi Terauchi – Ep. 86

July 10, 2026
Guest: Yoshi Terauchi, D.D.S., Ph.D.

Separated instrument retrieval remains one of endodontics’ most technically demanding—and humbling—procedures. In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson joins internationally recognized clinician, researcher, and educator Dr. Yoshi Terauchi for a highly technical yet practical exploration of the science and strategy behind predictable instrument retrieval. From cyclic and torsional fatigue to canal curvature, fragment location, and CBCT assessment, Dr. Terauchi explains why successful retrieval begins with diagnosis, visualization, and disciplined treatment planning. 

Dr. Terauchi shares the principles behind his systematic approach to retrieval, including strategic dentin removal, ultrasonic technique, bypassing, and the clinical application of the Yoshi Loop. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between persistence and preservation: when does continued retrieval become more damaging than the fragment itself? Along the way, Drs. Johnson and Terauchi discuss secondary fracture, apical displacement, pericervical dentin preservation, tactile sensation, and those difficult cases in which the separated instrument lies beyond the curvature. 

Endo Voices is generously sponsored by Endodontic Practice Partners. 

Episode Resources

  • Terauchi Y, Ali WT, Abielhassan MM. Present status and future directions: Removal of fractured instruments. International Endodontic Journal. 2022;55(Suppl 3):685–709. doi:10.1111/iej.13743.
  • Terauchi Y, O’Leary L, Suda H. Removal of separated files from root canals with a new file-removal system: Case reports. Journal of Endodontics. 2006;32(8):789–797. doi:10.1016/j.joen.2005.12.009.
  • Terauchi Y, Sexton C, Bakland LK, Bogen G. Factors affecting the removal time of separated instruments. Journal of Endodontics. 2021;47(8):1245–1252. doi:10.1016/j.joen.2021.05.009.
  • Madarati AA, Hunter MJ, Dummer PMH. Management of intracanal separated instruments. Journal of Endodontics.  2013;39(5):569–581. doi:10.1016/j.joen.2012.12.033.
  • Fu M, Zhang Z, Hou B. Removal of broken files from root canals by using ultrasonic techniques combined with dental microscope: A retrospective analysis of treatment outcome. Journal of Endodontics. 2011;37(5):619–622. doi:10.1016/j.joen.2011.02.016. 
 


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Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.