Osteomyelitis of the mandible

Abstract

Before application of any cross-sectional imaging modality, the orthopanoramic view is indispensable in assessing the status of dentition, in recognizing direct radiographic signs of osteomyelitis, or in determining the presence of predisposing conditions such as a fracture or systemic bone disease. The orthopanoramic view is the procedure of choice in follow-up examinations in patients who have osteomyelitis. In acute osteomyelitis, the higher sensitivity of MR imaging for detection of intramedullary inflammation advocates this imaging modality for confirmation of the clinical diagnosis. If surgical treatment is planned, high-resolution CT is required to specify the degree of cortical destruction, the presence of sequestra in particular, and to define the extent of osseous removal required. In chronic osteomyelitis, the higher sensitivity of MR imaging to detect periosteal inflammation and soft tissue involvement advocates this modality to reveal the presence, location, and extent of chronic inflammation. The assessment of persistence or recurrence of chronic inflammation after surgical treatment is by high-resolution CT for the first 6 months following surgery. Finally, scintigraphy is recommended when multi-focal systemic disease is suspected, such as in CRMO and SAPHO syndrome.