Long-term results after treatment of extensive odontogenic cysts of the jaws: a review.

AIM: The aim was to perform a literature review concerning long-term results after treatment of extensive cysts of the jaws.

METHODS

The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, The Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. Case reports and abstracts were excluded.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-six articles were found, of which 30 were included. Only the minority of the studies reported long-term results. Most authors did not distinguish between temporary complications and permanent deficiencies (incomplete bone healing, permanent sensory deficits).

CONCLUSION

Based on this review, it is recommended to consider primary decompression or marsupialization ± later definitive surgery for the treatment of extensive jaw cysts in order to achieve satisfying clinical results.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Complications (occurring within the first 6 months postoperatively, e.g., infection) and remaining deficits (after a minimum of 6 months and not changing over time, e.g., bony or sensory deficit) should be clearly separated from each other. Knowledge of permanent deficits and bone healing after different therapeutic approaches is important for decision making. Patients should be informed not only about complications but also about the risk of permanent deficits for each method.