Osteoradionecrosis of the facial skull: current evidence (literature review)

Abstract

Despite recent advances in radiation therapy, osteoradionecrosis remains a common and severe complication of radiation therapy in patients with head and neck cancer. Modern methods of treatment are developed with regard to the disease severity and pathophysiology complexity, as well as theories of the osteoradionecrosis development. The following theories of osteoradionecrosis pathophysiology are currently considered: "radiation-induced osteomyelitis", "hypoxic, hypocellular, hypovascular" and "fibroatrophic". Prior to radiation therapy, the patient is provided with restorative dental treatment and radiation therapy planning. Treatments range from conservative «watch and wait» to more radical surgical interventions. Currently, there is no approved standard for the care of osteoradionecrosis patients, however, the activity in this direction is underway. Currently state-of-the-art treatment strategies are available with limited evidence. The review aims to assess the literature on osteoradionecrosis of the jaw with an emphasis on available treatment options.