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J Reconstr Microsurg 2013; 29(02): 069-076
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1329923
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Osteoradionecrosis of the Jaws: A Review of Conservative and Surgical Treatment Options

Kiki C. A. L. Cheriex
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Tim H. J. Nijhuis
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
,
Marc A. M. Mureau
1   Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

19 June 2012

25 August 2012

Publication Date:
20 December 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Although surgery still is the most important treatment modality in the management of head and neck cancer, radiotherapy is increasingly being used. Consequently, the majority of head and neck cancer patients are at risk of developing osteoradionecrosis of the jaws, which is the most serious and important complication of radiotherapy. This review presents the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, classification, and prevention of osteoradionecrosis. In addition, the body of evidence regarding conservative as well as surgical treatment of osteoradionecrosis is reviewed, and studies on complications, tumor recurrence and patient survival, dental rehabilitation, and functional and aesthetic outcome after surgical treatment for osteoradionecrosis are discussed.

Keywords

osteoradionecrosis - hyperbaric oxygen - conservative treatment - surgical treatment
 

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