Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Maxilla

Abstract

The authors make a review of the current literature on the subject of bisphosphonateassociated osteonecrosis of the jaw bones. The modern theories about the occurrence of this complication resulting from bisphosphonate treatment of diseases characterized with high bone resorption are discussed. Modern understandings about the causes, risk factors and triggers for the occurrence of this disease are described. Attention is paid to the modern concepts of medication therapy and surgical treatment. A case of bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the maxilla with involvement of the maxillary sinus is reported. Surgical intervention comprising sequestrectomy, radical maxillary sinus surgery and plastic closure of the formed oroantral communication is described.

The Challenge for the Dental Community-Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

“…Bamias A et al [5] suggests that there is a strong correlation between the duration of bisphosphonate treatment and manifestation of jaw osteonecrosis. They found that the risk of developing this condition varies from 1% (12 months after the start of treatment) to 11% in the fourth year.…”