Endodontics · single question
During endodontic irrigation, a patient suddenly develops severe pain, rapid swelling, and bleeding/bruising at the site. The most likely cause is:
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Correct answer: A. A sodium hypochlorite (irrigant) accident
- A. Correct. Extrusion of sodium hypochlorite beyond the apex ('hypochlorite accident') causes immediate intense pain, rapid swelling, ecchymosis, and tissue necrosis.
- B. Gutta-percha allergy is rare and would not present as sudden swelling during irrigation.
- C. Sinusitis develops over time and is not triggered acutely by irrigation.
- D. A vasovagal faint causes pallor/bradycardia, not localized swelling and bleeding.