The use of Platelet-rich Fibrin in the management of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: A case series

Autologous platelet concentrates as adjuvant in the surgical management of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an infectious side effect associated with bisphosphonates and monoclonal antibodies (denosumab, immune modulators, and antiangiogenic medications). Adjunctive therapies for the surgical management of MRONJ include autologous platelet concentrates (APCs). These APCs serve as a source of various cells and growth factors that aid tissue healing and regeneration. This review evaluated the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), plasma-rich in growth factors (PRGF), and leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) as adjuvant therapies for the surgical management of MRONJ by conducting analyses on the results of 58 articles. Compared to surgical treatment alone, the application of PRP and L-PRF after surgery appears to increase healing in the management of patients with MRONJ. No studies have reported unhealed lesions as a result of surgical treatment of MRONJ with PRGF application or compared it with surgical treatment alone. The overall results of this review have shown favorable healing rates of MRONJ lesions managed with the application of APCs after surgical treatment; however, significant methodological limitations may limit the scientific evidence supporting their use. Further randomized controlled trials with strict criteria are needed to establish the extent to which APCs can improve wound healing and quality of life in patients with MRONJ requiring surgical treatment.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin Treatment Evaluation in Patients with Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw and Osteoradionecrosis

Background. Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and osteoradionecrosis (ORN) are associated with severe disability and continuous pain, both of which are very difficult to control. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) treatment compared to iodoform gauze packing and the primary suture of oral mucosa in patients with both MRONJ and ORN. Methods. Patients suffering from MRONJ and ORN who were treated in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic of Cluj-Napoca in the last 10 years were selected for this study from the hospital database. Results. PRF treatment proved to be a reliable method to help heal the necrotic bone sites. High-ASA risk patients and immunosuppressed patients are more prone to recurrence and persistent signs and symptoms. Intravenous bisphosphonates produce more intense symptomatology compared to oral administration. The posterior mandible is more difficult to treat compared to other sites. Conclusions. The quality of life of MRONJ and ORN patients may be improved by a protocol that reduces pain and hospitalization.

Experimental Study on Rats with Critical-Size Bone Defects Comparing Effects of Autologous Bone Graft, Equine Bone Substitute Bio-Gen® Alone or in Association with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

BACKGROUND

A critical-sized bone defect (CsBD) is considered one that will not heal spontaneously and requires reconstruction. This study aims to compare the results of using different bone reconstructive techniques and to study the potential of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to enhance the healing properties of a bone substitute (BS).

METHODS

In this experimental study on rats, the treatment of critical-sized bone defects was carried out by analysing four groups: a control group in which the bone defect was left empty; a group treated with Bio-Gen®; another group in which the defect was treated with PRF in combination with Bio-Gen®; and the last that was treated with autologous bone graft (ABG). The defects were evaluated by microcomputed tomography (µCT) and then histomorphometrically.

RESULTS

From both the histological and imagistic point of view, the best results were registered in the ABG group, followed by the group treated with Bio-Gen® with PRF, Bio-Gen® group, and control group, with statistically significant differences.

CONCLUSIONS

A 5 mm defect in the rat radius can be considered critical. ABG showed the best results in treating the bone defect. PRF significantly enhanced the efficacy of Bio-Gen®.

Effectiveness of Oroantral Communication Closure Using Solid Platelet-Rich Fibrin Compared to a Conventional Treatment Approach: A Randomized Clinical Trial

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin clot (PRF) and conventional oroantral communication (OAC) repair techniques following tooth extractions from the maxilla. The study involved 22 patients, divided into 2 groups: a study group treated with PRF and a control group undergoing conventional OAC repair. The primary outcome measured was the effectiveness of OAC closure, with pain intensity and postoperative complications as secondary outcomes. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to evaluate post-extraction bone regeneration. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on days 0, 1, 7, and 14 postoperatively. The results showed that the PRF group experienced a significant decrease in pain within the first 24 hours and after 7 days (P < .0001; P < .05). In contrast, complications were reported in 45.45% of patients in the conventional repair group and 18.18% in the A-PRF group. Three months postsurgery, CBCT revealed appreciable bone healing in both groups, with no significant difference (P > .05). In conclusion, the study suggests that A-PRF treatment for OACs resulted in fewer complications and quicker pain reduction than traditional repair methods, making it a promising alternative for managing OACs. However, future studies are needed to confirm these findings and establish the full therapeutic potential of PRF.

Clinical and Biochemical Evaluation of the Use of Alb-PRF versus L-PRF in Mandibular Third Molar Extractions: A Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial

Bone tissue engineering seeks biomaterials that enable cell migration, angiogenesis, matrix deposition, and tissue regeneration. Blood concentrates like platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) offer a cost-effective source of cells and growth factors to enhance healing. The present study aimed to evaluate heated serum albumin with liquid PRF (Alb-PRF) and L-PRF clinically and biochemically after placement in dental sockets following mandibular third molar extraction. In a controlled, split-mouth study involving 10 volunteers, 20 extracted molars were treated with either Alb-PRF or L-PRF. Post-extraction, pain, trismus, infection presence, and swelling were measured. The concentrations of different analytes in the surgical sites were also examined. The data were statistically analyzed, with significance defined at p < 0.05 (t-test). No significant difference was noted between the groups for pain and trismus, but Alb-PRF showed a significant reduction in swelling on day seven. The Alb-PRF group showed lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (GM-CSF, IL-1b, IL-6, IFNy, IL-8, IL-15, RANTES, and MIP-1a) after seven days, with only higher expressions of MIP-1b, IL-1b, and MCP-1 found in the L-PRF group. Differences were observed in the release of analytes between L-PRF and Alb-PRF, with Alb-PRF significantly reducing edema after seven days. Alb-PRF reduced edema, while L-PRF increased inflammatory cytokines. When compared to L-PRF, Alb-PRF reduced edema and the release of inflammatory cytokines, suggesting promising effects in socket healing while underscoring the role of growth factors and cytokines in potential applications of blood concentrates.

Prevention and management of drug-induced osteonecrosis of the jaws using platelet-rich fibrin: A clinical feasibility study

OBJECTIVE

Although a standard treatment guideline has not been established to date, various treatment modalities have been described in the literature based on the staging of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). The aim of this case series was to describe the outcomes of surgical intervention of MRONJ cases with the adjunctive use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen patients under therapy with zoledronic acid, seven of them underwent surgical removal of necrotic bone with debridement, followed by placement of three to four PRF membranes and achieving primary closure. In six patients, PRF was used preventively to avoid MRONJ.

RESULTS

The surgical treatment outcomes were successful in all patients, with a follow-up range of 12-48 months. In the presented cases, the intraoral evaluation showed excellent soft tissue healing except for one patient secondary wound healing was reported. Additionally, there was no recurrence of bone exposure in all cases. PRF membranes were comparatively effective in postsurgical pain control.

CONCLUSION

The use of PRF could represent a valuable adjunct in the surgical management for advanced stages of MRONJ cases.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This clinical case series describes the use of PRF membranes as a valuable adjunct in the surgical management of MRONJ patients, especially when treating advanced MRONJ cases. Moreover, PRF demonstrates usefulness in preventing such difficult complications from occurring.

Efficacy of fibrin-rich platelets and leukocytes (L-PRF) in tissue repair in surgical oral procedures in patients using zoledronic acid-case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) is a complication that develops in patients who use or have used antiresorptive or antiangiogenic medications for the treatment of bone metabolic disease and bone metastases. Clinically, MRONJ is characterized by the appearance of an inflammation in soft tissues and exposure of necrotic bone tissue in mandible or maxilla, for a period of 8 weeks, in patients with no history of head and neck radiotherapy that were being or are being treated with antiresorptive and/or antiangiogenic agents. The fibrin-rich platelets and leukocytes (L-PRF) membrane has been used as an alternative for MRONJ prevention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of L-PRF in prevention and treatment of bone necrosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The patients included had MRONJ diagnosis confirmed after clinical and radiographic examination and patients whose only therapeutic option was dental extraction.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included in the study and were divided in three groups. Two patients were removed from the study due to previous history of pentoxifylline and tocopherol use. The result of surgical treatment was successful in 57% in group 1 (control/MRONJ prevention), 100% in group 2 (MRONJ prevention), and 80% in group 3 (MRONJ treatment).

CONCLUSION

L-PRF is an autologous biomaterial that allows the release of growth factors for a prolonged time, resulting in a better healing, reducing the risk contamination, edema, and postoperative pain, being a great ally in the prevention and treatment of MRONJ because it returns to these patients, mainly quality of life, reducing pain, and recurrent infections commonly seen in the processes of bone necrosis of the jaws.

Use of Leukocyte-rich and Platelet-rich Fibrin (L-PRF) Adjunct to Surgical Debridement in the Treatment of Stage 2 and 3 Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is characterized by exposed necrotic bone persisting for more than 8 weeks in the maxillofacial region in patients using antiresorptive or antiangiogenetic drugs for several treatment options like bone metastasis or osteoporosis. There are several treatment options studied in scientific literature, and one of them with promising results is using platelet concentrates adjunct to surgical therapy. The aim of this study is to examine the therapeutic effect of leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) on patients with MRONJ. This 2-centered study investigated patients referred to oral and maxillofacial surgery departments of 2 university clinics between the years 2014 and 2020 with the diagnosis of MRONJ. Demographic data, the indication of the drug usage, drug type, duration, administration route, and systemic comorbidities of the patients were recorded. L-PRF was applied to 20 osteonecrotic lesions of 19 patients following surgical debridement. The male/female ratio was 5/14. Except 1 of the patients, all of the indications of medication were neoplasia-related. The mean follow-up period of patients was 27.9±9.2 months. Most common antirezorptive drug was zoledronate (84.2%). Complete resolution was observed in 16 necrosis sites (80%). It could be concluded that the use of L-PRF may represent an important adjunct in the surgical management of MRONJ.

Reporting Criteria for Clinical Trials on Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ): A Review and Recommendations

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a complication caused by anti-resorptive agents and anti-angiogenesis drugs. Since we wanted to write a protocol for a randomized clinical trial (RCT), we reviewed the literature for the essential information needed to estimate the size of the active patient population and measure the effects of therapeutics. At the same time, we designed a questionnaire intended for clinicians to collect detailed information about their practices. Twelve essential criteria and seven additional items were identified and compiled from 43 selected articles. Some of these criteria were incorporated in the questionnaire coupled with data on clinical practices. Our review found extensive missing data and a lack of consensus. For example, the success rate often combined MRONJ stages, diseases, and drug treatments. The occurrence date and evaluation methods were not harmonized or quantitative enough. The primary and secondary endpoints, failure definition, and date coupled to bone measurements were not well established. This information is critical for writing a RCT protocol. With this review article, we aim to encourage authors to contribute all their findings in the field to bridge the current knowledge gap and provide a stronger database for the coming years.

Free Skin Grafting to Reconstruct Donor Sites after Radial Forearm Flap Harvesting: A Prospective Study with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

Reconstruction of the donor site after radial forearm flap harvesting is a common procedure in maxillofacial plastic surgery. It is normally carried out with split-thickness or full-thickness free skin grafts. Unfortunately, free skin graft transplantation faces wound healing impairments such as necrosis, (partial) graft loss, or tendon exposure. Several studies have investigated methods to reduce these impairments and demonstrated improvements if the wound bed is optimised, for example, through negative-pressure wound therapy or vacuum-assisted closure. However, these methods are device-dependent, expansive, and time-consuming. Therefore, the application of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to the wound bed could be a simple, cost-effective, and device-independent method to optimise wound-bed conditions instead. In this study, PRF membranes were applied between the wound bed and skin graft. Results of this study indicate improvements in the PRF versus non-PRF group (93.44% versus 86.96% graft survival, p = 0.0292). PRF applied to the wound bed increases graft survival and reduces impairments. A possible explanation for this is the release of growth factors, which stimulate angiogenesis and fibroblast migration. Furthermore, the solid PRF membranes act as a mechanical barrier ("lubrication" layer) to protect the skin graft from tendon motion. The results of this study support the application of PRF in donor-site reconstruction with free skin grafts.

Current Trends in Adjuvant Therapies for Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a refractory disease, and a standard protocol for its treatment has not yet been established. In addition, owing to the old age of MRONJ patients and various complications, treatment goals focus on relieving the symptoms and improving the quality of life. For this reason, different treatments such as conservative, surgical, and adjunctive treatments have been attempted. In particular, adjunctive treatment, which is effective for promoting healing and reducing recurrence, is gaining increasing interest, and several studies and clinical trials related to it have been published. Representative adjuvant therapies include teriparatide, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2, hyperbaric oxygen, photobiomodulation and platelet concentrates. All have generally shown beneficial effects; however, no standard protocol for adjunctive treatment exists. Therefore, in this literature review, we briefly summarized the different adjuvant therapies and reviewed clinical reports to help decide whether to use adjuvant therapies in treating patients with MRONJ.

Bone Targeting Agents in Patients with Prostate Cancer: General Toxicities and Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Introduction: Bone metastases are the most frequent site of secondary localization of prostate cancer (PCa) and are present in about 90% of cases of advanced disease. Consequently, an adequate management of bone involvement is of pivotal importance in the therapeutic approach and skeletal-related events (SREs) need to be closely monitored and promptly assessed and treated. Bone targeting agents (BTAs), consisting in bisphosphonates and denosumab, are an essential part of the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer that accompanies systemic treatments throughout the most part of the history of the disease. Activity and safety of bone targeting agents: These treatments are correlated to better outcomes in terms of reduction of SREs and, in metastatic castration resistant setting, of increased overall survival (OS), but several important adverse events have to be managed and prevented. Of these, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is extremely invalidating and should be managed with a special attention. Discussion: The role of BTAs in prostate cancer is pivotal throughout many stages of the disease, but several toxicities should be quickly recognized and treated. We aim at recollecting evidence on clinical benefit of BTAs, common and specific toxicities, and explore the pathophysiology and clinical aspects of osteonecrosis of the jaw. We present a review of the literature to report the role of the different types of bone targeting agents in the management of prostate cancer with bone metastases with a particular focus on common toxicities and ONJ to recollect current evidences on the activity of these compounds and the correct management of their adverse events.

Non-Interventional Prospective Observational Study of Platelet Rich Fibrin as a Therapy Adjunctive in Patients with Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

BACKGROUND

Medication-related osteonecrosis (MRONJ) of the jaw is a severe and feared side effect of antiresorptive therapy in the oncological setting. With growing evidence that impaired angiogenesis may represent a key factor in pathogenesis, the aim of this study was to evaluate an autologous platelet concentrate as a possible additive in surgical therapy to optimize vascularization and, subsequently, resolution rates.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A non-interventional, prospective, multicenter study was conducted, and all patients with stage I-III MRONJ, undergoing antiresorptive therapy for an oncological indication, were included. The necrosis was treated surgically without (study arm A) or with (arm B) the addition of an autologous platelet concentrate (platelet-rich fibrin, PRF).

RESULTS

After 5, 14, and 42 days postoperative, wound healing (primary outcome: mucosal integrity) as well as downstaging, pain perception, and oral health-related quality of life (secondary outcome) were assessed via clinical evaluation. Among the 52 patients included, primarily with MRONJ stage I and II, the use of PRF as an additive in surgical therapy did not display a significant advantage for wound healing (p = 0.302), downstaging (p = 0.9), pain reduction (p = 0.169), or quality of life (p = 0.9).

SUMMARY

In conclusion, PRF as an adjunct did not significantly optimize wound healing. Further, no significant changes in terms of downstaging, pain sensation, and oral health-related quality of life were found.

The Treatment of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ): A Systematic Review with a Pooled Analysis of Only Surgery versus Combined Protocols

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a serious adverse reaction of antiresorptive and antiangiogenic agents, and it is also a potentially painful and debilitating condition. To date, no specific studies have prospectively evaluated the efficacy of its treatment and no robust standard of care has been established. Therefore, a systematic review (2007–2020) with a pooled analysis was performed in order to compare MRONJ surgical techniques (conservative or aggressive) versus combined surgical procedures (surgery plus a non-invasive procedure), where 1137 patients were included in the pooled analysis. A statistically significant difference in the 6-month improvement rate, comparing combined conservative surgery versus only aggressive (91% versus 72%, p = 0.05), was observed. No significant difference regarding any group with respect to the 6-month total resolution rate (82% versus 72%) was demonstrated. Of note, conservative surgery combined with various, adjuvant, non-invasive procedures (ozone, LLLT or blood component + Nd:YAG) was found to achieve partial or full healing in all stages, with improved results and the amelioration of many variables. In conclusion, specific adjuvant treatments associated with minimally conservative surgery can be considered effective and safe in the treatment of MRONJ, although well-controlled studies are a requisite in arriving at definitive statements

The Role of Autologous Platelet Concentrates in the Treatment of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

ABSTRACT

The frequent refractory response of patients to the treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRJON) has attracted clinicians' attention to several treatments. However, they are at best, palliative, and have a higher failure rate than previous treatments. The present meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) combined with surgery in the treatment of MRONJ. The authors conducted a meta-analysis involving a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Wiley Online Library and the Cochrane Library for eligible studies from their inception to November 2019, in accordance with preselected criteria. The inverse variance method was applied to fixed or random effects models based on the heterogeneity of the studies. Thirteen studies that investigated APCs in the treatment of MRONJ were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis of 223 patients and 33 lesions. The pooled success rate of APCs combined with surgery for MRONJ was 90% (95%CI, 80%-97%) and the pooled OR was 7.67 (95%CI, 2.10-27.98), indicating the combination was 7.67 times more effective than surgery alone. The results suggest that the use of APCs is a promising therapeutic regimen, as it provided additional benefits to surgery in the treatment of MRONJ. To achieve the benefits, a tension-free primary closure of the soft tissue is recommended as well. Randomized studies with large sample sizes is warranted to confirm our finding.

Prevention and treatment of oral adverse effects of antiresorptive medications for osteoporosis - A position paper of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (SBEM), Brazilian Society of Stomatology and Oral Pathology (Sobep), and Brazilian Association for Bone Evaluation and Osteometabolism (Abrasso)

Antiresorptive therapy is the main form of prevention of osteoporotic or fragility fractures. Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a relatively rare but severe adverse reaction to antiresorptive and antiangiogenic drugs. Physicians and dentists caring for patients taking these drugs and requiring invasive procedures face a difficult decision because of the potential risk of MRONJ. The aim of this study was to discuss the risk factors for the development of MRONJ and prevention of this complication in patients with osteoporosis taking antiresorptive drugs and requiring invasive dental treatment. For this goal, a task force with representatives from three professional associations was appointed to review the pertinent literature and discuss systemic and local risk factors, prevention of MRONJ in patients with osteoporosis, and management of established MRONJ. Although scarce evidence links the use of antiresorptive agents in the context of osteoporosis to the development of MRONJ, these agents are considered a risk factor for this complication. Despite the rare reports of MRONJ in patients with osteoporosis, the severity of symptoms and impact of MRONJ in the patients' quality of life make it imperative for health care professionals to consider this complication when planning invasive dental procedures.

The Role of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) in the Prevention of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ)

Dentoalveolar surgery is probably the major risk factor for MRONJ and for other complications following a tooth extraction, especially in patients affected by systemic diseases. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate whether a PRF plug inserted in the post extraction socket can prevent the onset of MRONJ. The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical protocol that included the insertion or not of the PRF following the extraction and all the anamnestic, and clinical data were analyzed. In the control group, 5 patients developed MRONJ (19.23%) while in the study group, any case of MRONJ was reported. In the control group, patients who developed MRONJ had a CTX with less than 100 pg/mL (5 high-risk patients, Spearman's rank r = .547, p < .001). The use of platelet concentrates in patients with high risk of MRONJ is a user-friendly technique with an excellent cost-benefit ratio in oral surgery.

Mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the jaw

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has recently associated to the increase in antiresorptive and anti-angiogenic drugs prescriptions in the treatment of oncologic and osteoporotic patients. The physiopathogenesis of MRONJ remains unclear and available treatments are unsatisfactory. Newer pharmacological treatments have shown good results, but are not curative and could have major side effects. At the same time as pharmacological treatments, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for tissue regeneration and repair. MSCs are multipotential non-hematopoietic progenitor cells capable to differentiating into multiple lineages of the mesenchyme. Bone marrow MSCs can differentiate into osteogenic cells and display immunological properties and secrete paracrine anti-inflammatory factors in damaged tissues. The immunomodulatory, reparative, and anti-inflammatory properties of bone marrow MSCs have been tested in a variety of animal models of MRONJ and applied in specific clinical settings. The aim of this review is to discuss critically the immunogenicity and immunomodulatory properties of MSCs, both in vitro and in vivo, the possible underlying mechanisms of their effects, and their potential clinical use as modulators of immune responses in MRONJ, and to identify clinical safety and recommendations for future research.

Therapeutic Approach in the Treatment of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Case Series of 3 Patients and State of the Art on Surgical Strategies

BACKGROUND

Bisphosphonates and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand inhibitors are currently the most widely used antiresorptive therapies in bone metabolism diseases treatment. Unfortunately they can evoke medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws. The present case series study proposes to evaluate clinical features, evolution and the surgical therapeutic approaches in three patients affected by medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw and to review the state of art regarding the management of this complication in light of the most recent literature.

METHODS

Three cases of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws are discussed, two related to bisphosphonates therapy (ibandronic acid) and one due to denosumab.

RESULTS

All three patients were aged female and had probably a dental trigger agent. The lesions located in posterior mandible were treated in one case with the surgical approach alone and, in the other case, with surgical approach associated with Erb-YAG laser. The lesion related to denosumab was treated with surgical approach and platelet rich fibrin application. A complete healing was always achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

Dentists should be aware of the potential risk of developing medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws for patients who take or had taken antiresorptive drugs. The side effects of denosumab and bisphosphonates are partly overlapping and currently there is still no consensus about the therapeutic surgical options. Prevention and early detection of the lesions should be the primary strategy.

Efficacy of complementary treatment with autologous platelet concentrates and/or mesenchymal stem cells in chemical osteonecrosis of the jaw. Systematic review of the literature

The aim of this systematic review was to establish the current status of the subject and find out what scientific evidence we have on the use of autologous plasma concentrates (APCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as complementary therapies at the management of Medication-related Osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). We performed a literature search of articles published between December 2019 to January 2020 in electronic databases, in accordance to PRISMA system. The variables analyzed were: the number of patients, age, sex, medical history, origin of MRONJ, imaging studies, treatment performed, and evolution of MRONJ. The articles included in the review were grouped into two groups (Group A "Therapy with APCs" and Group B "Therapy with APCs and MSCs"). Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the articles. Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate eventual differences between groups. Of the 306 patients who were included, 297 belonged to Group A and 9 to Group B. In our sample, women predominated against men and no significant differences in age were observed. Osteoporosis was the most frequent underlying disease in both groups. The most common origin of MRONJ was oral surgery in group A. Conservative surgery was performed in all patients, but complementary treatment was applied in different ways in each group. The resolution of the pathology was achieved in 90% of cases in both groups without significant differences between them. The mean score of the reviewed studies at NOS was 4. There are currently no published scientific data that can sufficiently support the use of APCs and MSCs for the treatment of established MRONJs.

Medication-related osteonecrosis and osteoradionecrosis of the jaws: Update and current management

Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) and osteoradionecrosis of the jaws (ORNJ) are two different diseases of quite similar appearance. MRONJ is mainly due to antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drug therapy and ORNJ to radiotherapy. The present work aimed at presenting and comparing the current knowledge on MRONJ and ORNJ. They both present as an exposure of necrotic bone and differ in some clinical or radiological characteristics, clinical course and mostly in treatment. They share similar risk factors. A tooth extraction is more frequently found as a triggering factor in MRONJ. The frequency of a maxillary localisation seems higher for MRONJ. On computed tomographic images, a periosteal reaction seems characteristic of MRONJ. More frequent pathological fractures seem to occur in ORNJ. It is mandatory, for ORNJ diagnosis, to exclude a residual or recurrent tumour using histological examination. Both MRONJ and ORNJ are challenging to treat and cannot be managed similarly. For both, it would still be worth to optimise awareness within the medical community, patients' oral hygiene and dental cares to improve their prevention and make their incidences decrease. Conservative therapy is more frequently achieved for MRONJ than ORNJ and surgical resection is more often performed for ORNJ. For both diseases, the last treatment possible in refractory cases is a surgical extensive resection with free flap reconstruction. A MRONJ classification is widely used today, whereas no consensus exists to date for ORNJ classification. We propose a classification that could play this role.

Usage of stem cells in oral and maxillofacial region

Malformations of the maxillofacial region has disturbing psychosocial effects and causes enormous socioeconomic concerns. The management of maxillofacial defects caused by congenital anomalies, trauma, osteoporotic fractures, periodontitis, or cancer treatment is challenging for oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Numerous approaches have been recommended for the managing of these deficiencies. The traditional treatment for maxillofacial defects or their repair is an intricate process by autologous bone grafts from the scapula, ribs, fibula, or iliac crest origins. Regenerative medicine is well thought-out as a perfect substitute approach for autologous bone grafts to renovate bone deficiencies. The use of stem cells has improved results and offered a technique to reconstruct craniofacial bone defects. The field of tissue engineering for the regeneration of maxillofacial needs integration of biochemical and biomaterial engineering aspects with cell transplantation to generate better-quality biomimetic scaffolds, prevascularize three-dimensional (3D) tissue structures, and engineer the composite interface of diverse facial tissues. In this review, we have discussed the application of different adult stem cells to repair oral and maxillofacial defects in animal models and clinical trials.

Clinical profile of individuals with bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: an integrative review

BACKGROUND

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is still the most prevalent type of osteonecrosis with clinical relevance. In Brazil, bisphosphonate use is high but there is a lack of epidemiological studies on BRONJ.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical profile of BRONJ in a Brazilian population through an integrative review.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Integrative review of BRONJ in a Brazilian population.

METHODS

Cases and clinical research on Brazilians with BRONJ between 2010 and 2019, indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and LILACS were reviewed. Age, sex, type and time of bisphosphonate intake, administration route, related diseases, region of the BRONJ, diagnostic criteria, staging, triggering factor and type of treatment were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles on 128 subjects were included. Most patients were women (82.03%); the mean age was 63 years. Intravenous zoledronic acid was mostly used (62.50%), for breast cancer treatment (46.87%). The main localization of BRONJ was the mandible (54.68%), associated mainly with tooth extractions (45.98%). The diagnostic criteria were clinical (100%) and radiographic (89.06%), mostly in stage II (68.08%). The surgical treatments were sequestrectomy (37.50%) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) (36.71%). Microbial control was done using chlorhexidine (93.75%) and infection control using clindamycin (53.90%).

CONCLUSIONS

BRONJ had higher prevalence in Brazilian women receiving treatment for breast cancer and osteoporosis. The mandible was the region most affected with a moderate stage of BRONJ, particularly when there were histories of tooth extraction and peri-implant surgery. Sequestrectomy with additional drugs and surgical therapy was the treatment most accomplished.

Case reports of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) treated with uncultured stromal vascular fraction and L-PRF

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a challenging affection, considering the absence of a "Gold Standard" treatment. Cell therapy and tissue engineering, using adipose-tissue stromal vascular fraction (SVF) containing mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPC); and a scaffold with healing properties, l-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF), could be a therapeutic option. Two cases of MRONJ were treated by tissue engineering. The patients presented respectively a stage-II and a stage-III MRONJ. The protocol consists of SVF injection in the L-PRF applied on the cleaned bone. Patients are followed clinically and by medical imaging (MI) for 18 months. The buccal mucosa was closed within a month. No recurrence was observed during the follow-up. The MI highlighted bone formation. MSC and EPC presence, in the SVF, were confirmed by immunophenotyping. We report the preliminary results of MRONJ patients successfully treated with the association of autologous fresh L-PRF-SVF.

Risk management in oral surgery

Complex oral surgery procedures are occurring more commonly in primary care, performed by both specialist oral surgeons and non-specialists/tier 2 providers. Practitioners in the UK are working in an increasingly litigious environment which is often at the forefront of a practitioner's mind and prevention of complaints and claims of negligence is vital in maintaining confidence in our practise. In this ever-increasing litigious environment practitioners need to be aware of the risks associated with oral surgery procedures and have to be able to assess and treatment plan patients effectively and safely. Consent is critical to all procedures, and the recent Montgomery case reinforces the importance of this process which must be individual to each patient. It is vital that as practitioners we are aware of our scope of practice and are able to fully inform patients of the risks and benefits of treatment. Practitioners must know their limits and when to refer on to secondary care. This paper discusses the essentials of risk management in oral surgery and describes key stages in the management of patients undergoing an oral surgery procedure. Initial assessment of the patient, which includes medical and dental history will be discussed followed by investigations to support the clinical diagnosis. Once diagnosis has been confirmed, the process of obtaining consent and the legal implications of this are discussed. Finally, a discussion on the appropriate evidence-based management of common complications which may arise when performing oral surgery will complete the paper.

Use of Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)-Based Autologous Membranes for Tooth Extraction in Patients under Bisphosphonate Therapy: A Case Report

Tooth extraction in patients treated with bisphosphonates (BPs) for osteoporosis or cancer exposes the patient to the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. An autologous membrane using platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an innovative technique to promote wound healing, which allows obtaining a hermetic closure of the post-extractive surgical site without the need of mucoperiosteal flaps or periosteal releasing incisions. Here, we report the case of a 70-year-old woman, in therapy with alendronate for 12 years, requiring the upper right premolar extraction because of a crown fracture. After the tooth extraction performed under antiseptic and antibiotic coverage, the PRF autologous membrane was placed on the surgical wound to close completely the post-extraction site. Follow-up visits were carried out after one, two, four weeks and two months from the intervention. The complete re-epithelization of the wound was observed without signs of infection. The use of PRF for the closure of post-extraction sockets in patients taking BPs appears to be a promising alternative to the more invasive surgical procedures. Future clinical trials will be pivotal in elucidating the effectiveness of PRF to prevent BP-related osteonecrosis after tooth extraction.

Regenerative Effect of Platelet Concentrates in Oral and Craniofacial Regeneration

Platelet concentrates (PCs) are biological autologous products derived from the patient's whole blood and consist mainly of supraphysiologic concentration of platelets and growth factors (GFs). These GFs have anti-inflammatory and healing enhancing properties. Overall, PCs seem to enhance bone and soft tissue healing in alveolar ridge augmentation, periodontal surgery, socket preservation, implant surgery, endodontic regeneration, sinus augmentation, bisphosphonate related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), osteoradionecrosis, closure of oroantral communication (OAC), and oral ulcers. On the other hand, no effect was reported for gingival recession and guided tissue regeneration (GTR) procedures. Also, PCs could reduce pain and inflammatory complications in temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), oral ulcers, and extraction sockets. However, these effects have been clinically inconsistent across the literature. Differences in study designs and types of PCs used with variable concentration of platelets, GFs, and leucocytes, as well as different application forms and techniques could explain these contradictory results. This study aims to review the clinical applications of PCs in oral and craniofacial tissue regeneration and the role of their molecular components in tissue healing.