Quantitative evaluation of bone remodelling after decompression of maxillofacial cysts using fractal analysis: A prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION

Maxillofacial cysts may cause functional and aesthetic impairment if inadequately managed. Decompression is a conservative approach that reduces surgical morbidity while promoting bone regeneration. This study evaluated the effectiveness of decompression in managing intrabony maxillofacial cysts using fractal analysis and clinical outcomes.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, including 28 patients aged 7-60 years with intrabony maxillofacial cysts requiring decompression. The primary outcome was the change in fractal dimension (FD) on sequential orthopantomograms (OPGs) from baseline to 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcome variables included reduction in cyst size on successive orthopantomograms, eruption of associated impacted or unerupted teeth, and treatment-related complications.

RESULTS

A total of 28 patients were included (mean age 23.8 ± 16.3 years; 57.1% male). Mean cyst area decreased from 10.20 ± 4.87 cm² preoperatively to 1.26 ± 1.82 cm² at 6 months (P < 0.001). FD increased from 1.31 ± 0.12 to 1.87 ± 0.09 over 6 months (P < 0.001). Six of 11 impacted teeth erupted successfully following decompression, and no major complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

Decompression resulted in significant cyst size reduction and progressive trabecular regeneration. These findings support decompression as a conservative, clinically relevant strategy for preserving anatomical structures and promoting bone healing in maxillofacial cyst management.