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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
[Clinical analysis of mandibular osteoradionecrosis]
Mioko Matsuo1, Fumihide Rikimaru, Yuichiro Higaki
1Division of Head Neck Surgery, National Hospital Organization Kyushu Cancer Center, Fukuoka.
Nihon Jibiinkoka Gakkai Kaiho
|March 18, 2011
Summary
Head and neck cancer radiotherapy can cause mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN), affecting 2.5% of patients. Treatment success varies, with higher cure rates for initial ORN compared to recurrent cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Oral Surgery
Context:
- Radiotherapy is a cornerstone in head and neck cancer treatment.
- Mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a severe local complication of this therapy.
- Understanding ORN incidence and outcomes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose:
- To analyze the incidence and risk factors of mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN) following radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment modalities for ORN.
- To identify factors influencing treatment outcomes and patient survival.
Summary:
- A study of 638 patients found an ORN incidence of 2.5% after radiotherapy.
- Higher ORN rates were observed in oral cancer patients (excluding tongue) receiving 81 Gy via X-ray and electron beams.
- ORN occurred within 1-5 years post-radiation. Preservation treatment succeeded in 44%, with a 63% final cure rate; cancer recurrence lowered cure to 25%.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for careful consideration of radiation dose and source in head and neck radiotherapy to minimize ORN risk.
- Effective management of ORN, including addressing co-existing conditions like dysphagia, is vital for improving patient outcomes.
- The study underscores the importance of specialized care for patients developing ORN post-radiotherapy.
