ABSTRACT In recent years, as there is increased usage of rotary system, separated rotary nickel - titanium (NiTi) files in root canals is the most frequently reported mishap, causing lot of stress and anxiety among clinicians and patients. The prognosis of endodontic treatment is dependent on condition of the pulp, presence or absence of periapical lesion, operator knowledge and skill and many other factors. This review was attempted to help the general dentists and non - endodontists decide which strategy is best when faced with a broken file in root canal.