Amniotic Membrane versus Formocresol as Pulpotomy Agents in Human Primary Molars: An in vivo Study

ABSTRACT

Objective: To determine and compare the efficacy of Amniotic Membrane (AM) as a pulpotomy agent with Formocresol (FC) clinically and radiographically. Material and Methods: 30 deciduous molars warranted for pulpotomy in 24 children (4-9 years) were divided equally into two groups of 15 each. Group1: Amniotic membrane pulpotomy and Group 2: Formocresol pulpotomy, which was followed by placement of glass ionomer cement and stainless steel crown restoration. The patients were recalled after 1, 3, 6 and 9 months for clinical and radiographic evaluation. Fisher's exact test and Mcnemar test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Results indicated both clinically and radiographically amniotic membrane performed at par with formocresol. Conclusion: Amniotic membrane with its regenerative, antibacterial properties and the ability to deliver growth factors has shown promising results comparable to gold standard formocresol when used as a pulpotomy agent and hence can be recommended as an alternative pulpotomy agent.