Evaluation of Surface Topography of A Brand of Stainless Steel K Files; An In-Vitro Study

Abstract

Objective: This study was aimed at evaluating and comparing the surface topography of a brand of stainless steel
K files (Mani, Inc. Japan), acquired from local markets in Rawalpindi, Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

Study Design: Comparative study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Institute of Space & Technology, Karachi from November 2021 to March 2022.

Materials and Methods: 20 Mani K-Files (Mani, Inc. Japan), (ISO#25), were acquired from Rawalpindi, Pakistan and were designated as Group A, while the same were purchased from London, UK and designated as the control Group B. Both the groups were evaluated and compared in terms of surface topography using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Results: Qualitative analysis of the tips and flutes of the files showed substantial mechanical defects in Group A as compared to the control Group B. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of machining debris and salt deposits on the surfaces of Group A files.

Conclusion: Surface topographical features of Group A files in our study were distorted. A close monitoring of the packaging conditions and machining efficacy of the locally available stainless steel K files is required to avoid untoward clinical occurrences during the course of clinical use.