Pharmacologic modalities in the treatment of osteoradionecrosis of the jaw

Abstract

Managing osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the facial bones is a challenge in maxillofacial head and neck surgery. Changes in understanding of ORN of the jaws has led to new studies using novel therapeutic modalities to manage this disorder. These treatment regimens may allow medical management to replace major reconstructive surgery for some patients who have already undergone chemoradiotherapy or combined modality therapy for head and neck cancer.

Keywords: Clodronate; Osteoradionecrosis; Pentoxifylline; Radiation-induced fibroatrophy; Tocopherol.