A 5 mm segment of an endodontic instrument separates in the canal during treatment. What is the correct course of action?

Correct answer: B. Inform the patient of what has occurred and refer to an endodontist

• A. Extraction is a drastic overreaction; separated instruments frequently have a good prognosis, particularly in previously vital cases.
• B. CORRECT. Two obligations converge. VERACITY requires that the patient be told of any complication affecting their care — concealment is both an ethical breach and a legal liability, and the fragment will be visible on any future radiograph. NON-MALEFICENCE requires that management be handed to someone equipped to attempt retrieval or to bypass the fragment under magnification. Document the discussion.
• C. Documentation is necessary but not sufficient — the patient must be told, and the case needs specialist input.
• D. Withholding this from the patient is a straightforward failure of veracity and informed consent, and is indefensible if discovered later.

Note: The obligation to disclose does not depend on whether the complication ultimately causes harm. Tell the patient, document it, and refer.