Apical Elevator Howard No. 3 with Handle No. 502 - Hu-Friedy - Delynov

What is the Hu-Friedy Howard #3 apical elevator?

The Howard #3 apical elevator, associated with the #502 handle, is a high-precision surgical instrument manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC. This device is designed to meet the requirements of dental surgeons during extraction phases. Its structure is optimized for the mobilization of apices and root debris. As an apical extraction instrument, it benefits from the expertise of Hu-Friedy, a recognized manufacturer in the field of dental instrumentation. This specific Howard #3 model is a standardized tool for oral surgery procedures requiring a fine and controlled approach within the dental socket.

What are the clinical indications for this instrument?

The Howard apical elevator is primarily indicated for the luxation and extraction of roots or root fragments located deep within the alveolar bone. Its use is recommended during simple or complex extraction surgeries, particularly when direct access is limited. Practitioners use this instrument to separate the periodontal ligament from the root, thereby facilitating removal without excessive damage to surrounding tissues. It is particularly useful in cases of fractured apices or residual roots after an initial extraction attempt. This device is exclusively reserved for health professionals qualified in dental and implant surgery.

What are the technical characteristics of this elevator?

The Howard #3 apical elevator is distinguished by its #502 reference handle, offering a grip adapted to precision procedures. Although the exact composition is not specified in the source data, manufacturing by Hu-Friedy guarantees an instrument meeting the standards of the INSTRU category. Its design focuses on the effective transmission of the leverage force necessary for apical luxation while maintaining a tip fineness essential for insertion into the desmodontal space. This instrument is classified as a Class I medical device, confirming its compliance with basic regulatory requirements for non-invasive or reusable surgical instruments after sterilization.

What are the contraindications for the use of this instrument?

According to the information provided by the manufacturer Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, specific contraindications are not exhaustively listed beyond general warnings. However, the use of this Howard apical elevator is strictly reserved for trained health professionals. Inappropriate use by unqualified personnel constitutes a major contraindication. Furthermore, as with any apical extraction instrument, its use may be contraindicated in clinical situations where the integrity of adjacent anatomical structures, such as the maxillary sinus or the inferior alveolar nerve, could be compromised by excessive pressure or a lack of visibility during manipulation.

What are the precautions for use and maintenance?

The use of the Howard #3 elevator requires a thorough knowledge of dental anatomy to avoid any bone fracture or root displacement into sensitive anatomical spaces. The manufacturer Hu-Friedy emphasizes the importance of reading the manual carefully before use. As a Class I instrument, it must be cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized according to current hospital or clinic protocols before each intervention. The practitioner must check the condition of the working end before use to ensure the absence of deformation or premature wear, thus guaranteeing patient safety and the effectiveness of the surgical gesture during apical extraction.

Who is the manufacturer and what standards are respected?

The device is manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, headquartered at 3232 N. Rockwell St. Chicago, Il 60618 USA. Hu-Friedy is a manufacturer recognized for the quality of its surgical instrumentation. This product is registered under Class I according to current medical device regulations. Although CE marking is not specifically detailed in the source data, compliance with American and international manufacturing standards is inherent to Hu-Friedy's production processes. It is imperative for users to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and respect maintenance protocols to ensure the longevity of this INSTRU category instrument.

State of the art

Specialized surgical instrumentation is evolving towards ergonomic designs.