[Ameloblastomas]

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this work was to report on the clinical, radiological and histological characteristics of ameloblastomas concerning bone structures of the face, rare but not exceptional tumours, and to communicate our experience of their treatment.

Material and methods: The authors reexamined six recent cases of patients presenting with ameloblastoma at the centre Antoine Lacassagne in Nice. The diagnostic context, the treatment and the development of the disease are given in detail, emphasizing the frequency of local relapse of this histologically benign condition.

Results: The study of these cases confirmed the benefit of surgical treatment of ameloblastoma. The frequency of local relapse in the cases of close resection, leaving in place micro-foci, justifies enlarged intervention, which is often bone destructive.

Conclusion: When the continuity of the bone is interrupted, in particular at the level of the mandible, and if the general condition of the patient permits, repair is preferable. In this situation, the procedure of choice is micro-anastomosis of the fibula.