In a surgical procedure to remove a retained root, which instrument is least likely to be required?

In a surgical procedure to remove a retained root, the instrument that is least likely to be required is bone rongeurs. Bone rongeurs are typically used for removing or contouring bone, particularly in situations where bone needs to be taken away to access the root or for osteotomy procedures. However, if the primary focus is on the extraction of a retained root, it might not be necessary to use rongeurs unless there is significant bony impaction around the root that impedes its removal.

In this context, aspirators are essential for maintaining a clear surgical field by removing blood and debris. The periosteal elevator is also crucial for reflecting the soft tissues and providing access to the bone and root, making it an important instrument in this type of extraction. A scalpel kit is typically needed for incisional work on the gums or tissues surrounding the retained root, which is an integral part of the surgical procedure. Thus, bone rongeurs would not be a primary requirement specifically for the removal of a retained root unless additional bone manipulation is indicated, making it the instrument least likely to be used in this procedure.