Hemisection is a corrective periradicular surgery, carried usually in mandibular molars to preserve the maximum amount of supporting structures of the natural dentition in a state of health and function.

Hemisection is done in mandibular molars wherein one of the two roots is devoid of bone and periodontal support. The main intention of hemisection is to retain a part of tooth root while removing the deceased part, which has a poor prognosis.

In this article hemisection for a left mandibular molar with Grade I mobility and no migration of the affected tooth No.36, with exudation from the pocket is described and discussed as a treatment approach for a lesion of primary periodontal origin with secondary endodontic involvement, similar to observations made by Hamp et a1⁹.

The indications advantages and limitations of hemisection as well as recommended literature on the subject are discussed.