178 - Comparative Success and Survival Between Hall and Conventional Preformed Metal Crown Techniques: An Umbrella Review

Purpose: This umbrella review aimed to evaluate systematic reviews and meta-analyses comparing effectiveness of Hall Technique (HT) versus Conventional Technique (CT) for restoring asymptomatic primary molars with dentinal caries. 

Methods: The literature search was conducted until August 1, 2023. Databases include PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Cochrane, Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source (DOSS), Prospero, Medline, Health and Physical Instruments (HAPI), and grey literature. Two researchers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed the quality and quantity of the studies. Quality appraisal was performed using the AMSTAR 2 tool, comprising 16 items of critical domains evaluating reliability and validity. Meta-analysis was conducted on three studies, following PRISMA guidelines, considering PICO question, inclusion and exclusion criteria, corrected covered area (CCA), risk of bias, and certainty of evidence (COE).  

Results: Three reviews were included in the umbrella review after meeting inclusion criteria. No significant difference was found between HT and CT regarding success and survival rates. The overall quality assessment using AMSTAR 2 rated each study as low quality due to inadequate investigation of publication bias and lack of discussion on potential impact on the review results. The CCA revealed a high degree of overlap, with 17% of the primary studies appearing multiple times across the included reviews.  

Conclusion: HT should be considered over CT given its minimally invasive nature and the advantage it provides for children unable to tolerate local anesthesia, providing a faster, more cost-effective treatment. Further research is needed to facilitate a larger data pool for future meta-analyses.


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