Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and osteonecrosis

Piezoelectric Surgery, Er:YAG Laser Surgery and Nd:YAG Laser Photobiomodulation: A Combined Approach to Treat Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws (MRONJ)

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a drug complication that can occur in patients taking antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs. Although it is a well-documented disease, there is no widely accepted treatment. However, several therapeutic approaches have been proposed. The surgical approach in many advanced cases appears inevitable; however, the results are not yet defined and predictable. This study aimed to propose a combined surgical approach with a piezoelectric device and laser (Er:YAG for bone ablation and Nd:YAG laser for photobiomodulation) in a young patient with breast cancer and bone metastasis under denosumab treatment, affected by spontaneous stage 3 MRONJ with maxillary sinus involvement. The patient under study reported no post-operative discomfort, with painkiller intake limited to the day after surgery. Total mucosal healing was observed without recurrences for more than 4 years after surgery. According to the results of our preliminary study, a combined surgical approach using a piezoelectric device and laser therapy is effective in managing patients affected by MRONJ, leveraging the clinical and biological advantages of these different techniques.

Management of Osteomyelitis in Autosomal Dominant Osteopetrosis: A Rare Case Report

Albers-Schönberg disease, also known as osteopetrosis or marble bone disease, is a rare genetic disorder characterised by increased cortical bone mass due to dysfunctional osteoclast cells. This case report presents a 34-year-old male with autosomal dominant osteopetrosis (ADO), who was referred for evaluation and treatment of a chronic mandibular abscess with associated osteomyelitis and fistula. The patient's medical history included multiple fractures necessitating open reduction and internal fixation. Radiological examinations revealed the presence of chronic osteomyelitis in the mandible, marked by an increase in bone density and obliteration of medullary spaces. The treatment approach included surgical debridement, extraction of adjacent teeth, sequestrectomy, and antibiotic therapy. Notably, Enterobacter cloacae bacteria were identified through culture, leading to a tailored antibiotic regimen. Follow-up assessments, including clinical photographs and postoperative CT scans, were conducted to monitor the patient's progress. Histopathological examination confirmed osteomyelitis showing both viable and non-viable bone, surrounded by significant inflammatory infiltrate. This case underscores the complexity of managing osteomyelitis in patients with osteopetrosis and highlights the importance of early diagnosis, particularly before dental extractions, to prevent disease exacerbation. The rarity of this condition emphasises the need for further research and awareness among healthcare providers for optimal patient care.

Reduction of MRONJ risk after exodontia by virtue of ozone infiltration: A randomized clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Exodontia is commonly considered as a risk factor for the development of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in individuals exposed to bone modifying agents. This study was aimed at assessing the efficiency and safety of a gaseous oxygen-ozone mixture as an adjuvant to a standard exodontia to reduce the risk of MRONJ development.

METHODS

A randomized, open-label, phase II, single-center clinical trial involving 117 patients at risk of MRONJ was conducted. The study protocol tested injections of an oxygen-ozone mixture in the post-extraction site. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: oxygen-ozone therapy, and standard tooth extraction protocol. Post-extraction wound healing was assessed using the Inflammatory Proliferative Remodeling (IPR) Wound Healing Scale.

RESULTS

The oxygen-ozone therapy group exhibited a significant improvement in wound healing post-extraction during the inflammatory and proliferative phases, as indicated by the IPR scale scores at 3-5 days (p = 0.006) and 14 days (p < 0.001) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Oxygen-ozone therapy shows promise in improving post-extraction healing in patients at risk of MRONJ. Future studies with larger sample sizes and multicenter collaborations are recommended to confirm the validity of these findings and explore the long-term efficacy of ozone therapy.

A Narrative Review of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: What a Clinician Should Know

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an uncommon complication of antiresorptive therapy (ART) in patients receiving higher and more frequent doses of osteoclast inhibitors. The jaws are the most common site, as they have high bone turnover. The oral structures are exposed to various types of stresses, like mastication and dental diseases, which lead to microtrauma and increased bone remodeling. The hallmark feature of MRONJ is the area of exposed, necrotic, nonhealing, asymptomatic bone for more than eight weeks. Objective signs are pain in the jaw and oral cavity, loose teeth, gingival swelling, ulceration, soft tissue infection, and paresthesia in the trigeminal nerve branches' territory. Clinically, the MRONJ has been defined in four stages, from stage 0 to stage 3. Close coordination between the dentist and oncologist is critical for optimal treatment. Conservative management should be preferred over surgical management. There is significant underreporting and misdiagnosis of MRONJ cases in regular clinical practice. There needs to be more awareness among treating physicians about this sporadic complication of bisphosphonate therapy. This narrative review has given a detailed insight into the subject, starting with etiology, pathogenesis, incidence, clinical presentation, workup, staging, and various management strategies. The review article focuses mainly on practical aspects of MRONJ, which every clinician dealing with the disease must know. With a better awareness of this potential complication, healthcare practitioners dealing with at-risk patients can better diagnose, prevent, address, and provide necessary care.

Analysis of Single- and Double-Stranded DNA Damage in Osteoblastic Cells after Hyperbaric Oxygen Exposure

(1) Background: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) exposure induces oxidative stress that may lead to DNA damage, which has been observed in human peripheral blood lymphocytes or non-human cells. Here, we investigated the impact of hyperbaric conditions on two human osteoblastic cell lines: primary human osteoblasts, HOBs, and the osteogenic tumor cell line SAOS-2. (2) Methods: Cells were exposed to HBO in an experimental hyperbaric chamber (4 ATA, 100% oxygen, 37 °C, and 4 h) or sham-exposed (1 ATA, air, 37 °C, and 4 h). DNA damage was examined before, directly after, and 24 h after exposure with an alkaline comet assay and detection of γH2AX+53BP1 colocalizing double-strand break (DSB) foci and apoptosis. The gene expression of TGFß-1, HO-1, and NQO1, involved in antioxidative functions, was measured with qRT-PCR. (3) Results: The alkaline comet assay showed significantly elevated levels of DNA damage in both cell lines after 4 h of HBO, while the DSB foci were similar to sham. γH2AX analysis indicated a slight increase in apoptosis in both cell lines. The increased expression of HO-1 in HOB and SAOS-2 directly after exposure suggested the induction of an antioxidative response in these cells. Additionally, the expression of TGF-ß1 was negatively affected in HOB cells 4 h after exposure. (4) Conclusions: in summary, this study indicates that osteoblastic cells are sensitive to the DNA-damaging effects of hyperbaric hyperoxia, with the HBO-induced DNA damage consisting largely of single-strand DNA breaks that are rapidly repaired.

Free Tissue Transfer for Skull Base Osteoradionecrosis: A Novel Approach in the Endoscopic Era

OBJECTIVES

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the skull base and craniovertebral junction is a challenging complication of radiation therapy (RT). Severe cases often require surgical intervention through a multi-modal approach. With the evolution in endoscopic surgery and advances in skull base reconstruction, there is an increasing role for microvascular free tissue transfer (MFTT). We describe an endoscopic-assisted approach for the management of ORN of the skull base using fascia lata for MFTT.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Between 2017 and 2021, a review of all cases in which fascia lata MFTT was utilized for skull base ORN was performed. Patient demographics, preoperative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes with long-term follow-up were reviewed.

RESULTS

Five patients were identified. Mean duration to onset of ORN was 17 months following RT. A trial of antibiotics, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO), and/or limited debridement was attempted without success. Refractory pain and progressive osteomyelitis were unifying symptoms. All patients underwent endoscopic debridement of the affected region of ORN prior to MFTT. Vascularized fascia lata was inset through a combined endonasal and transoral corridor. There was improvement in chronic pain in the postop setting with no patients requiring continued antibiotics or HBO therapy. Mean post-op follow-up was 23 months.

CONCLUSIONS

With continued evolution in endoscopic, minimally invasive approaches, there is an expanding indication for early surgical management in refractory ORN. Fascia lata MFTT is a novel and effective strategy for the management of ORN of the skull base and upper cervical spine with excellent postoperative outcomes and limited patient morbidity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 133:562-568, 2023.

A Narrative Review on Means to Promote Oxygenation and Angiogenesis in Oral Wound Healing

Oral mucosa serves as the primary barrier against pathogen invasions, mechanical stresses, and physical trauma. Although it is generally composed of keratinocytes and held in place by desmosomes, it shows variation in tissue elasticity and surface keratinization at different sites of the oral cavity. Wound healing undergoes four stages of tissue change sequences, namely haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. The wound healing of oral hard tissue and soft tissue is largely dependent on the inflammatory response and vascular response, which are the targets of many research. Because of a less-robust inflammatory response, favourable saliva properties, a unique oral environment, and the presence of mesenchymal stem cells, oral wounds are reported to demonstrate rapid healing, less scar formation, and fewer inflammatory reactions. However, delayed oral wound healing is a major concern in certain populations with autoimmune disorders or underlying medical issues, or those subjected to surgically inflicted injuries. Various means of approach have been adopted to improve wound tissue proliferation without causing excessive scarring. This narrative review reappraises the current literature on the use of light, sound, mechanical, biological, and chemical means to enhance oxygen delivery to wounds. The current literature includes the use of hyperbaric oxygen and topical oxygen therapy, ultrasounds, lasers, platelet-rich plasma (PRP)/platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and various chemical agents such as hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, and Centella asiatica to promote angiogenesis in oral wound healing during the proliferation process. The arrival of a proprietary oral gel that is reported to improve oxygenation is highlighted.

Nano-oxygenated hydrogels for locally and permeably hypoxia relieving to heal chronic wounds

Exposed chronic wounds are usually covered by hypoxic tissues accompanied with necrosis, persistent inflammation and anaerobic infections. Since atmospheric oxygen air can only penetrate about 0.3 mm tissues, meanwhile oxygen from the circulation is difficult to reach chronic wounds through the destroyed blood vessels, a solution to deliver oxygen locally and permeably is urgently needed. Herein we report a technique to reform traditional gel-based wound dressings by adding lyophilized oxygen encapsulated nanoparticles, which can deliver dissolved oxygen locally into wound surface. This delivery technique can potentially evaluate the therapeutic effects on hypoxic epithelial, endothelial and fibroblasts in vitro. Further experiments confirm the effects on both open wounds bearing and flap transplanted diabetic mice models. Considering its biocompatibility, effectiveness and practicality, we believe our hydrogel has significant transformation value to care and accelerate the healing of various clinical wounds, especially chronic wound.

Fostering a faster post-operative wound healing process with hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a rare case of squamous odontogenic tumor

Introduction

The surgical removal of an intraoral tumor and preventing intraoral wound dehiscence are constant challenges faced by surgeons today. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), the inhalation of 100% oxygen at a greater atmospheric pressure, is often used in cases of wounds to induce a faster wound healing process, alongside other treatment modalities. We report a rare case of squamous odontogenic tumor (SOT) treated with HBOT after being surgically removed to foster an accelerated wound recovery.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old Asian male presented with an intraoral 3 × 4 cm tumor, accompanied by acute pain on the maxillary region. Biopsy results showed a solid, brown parenchyma with islands of mature squamous epithelial cells, confirming the diagnosis of an SOT. An intraoral surgical approach was performed to remove the tumor. The patient was then treated with prophylactic antibiotics and 5 consecutive, daily sessions of HBOT at 2.0 ATA as an adjuvant therapy. No further complaints and no abnormalities were found at the 2-week follow-up evaluation.

Discussion

In our case of SOT, HBOT plays a role to inhibiting the bacterial growth which could lead to post-operative wound infections. A number of studies have incorporated HBOT as an adjuvant therapy for post-operative intra oral wounds which has resulted in minimal wound complications.

Conclusion

The use of HBOT as an adjunctive therapy in managing possible wound complications after the resection of an intraoral tumor enables a faster angiogenesis process, reduces tissue hypoxia and minimizes the risk of post-operative wound infections; hence fostering the wound healing process.

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Squamous odontogenic tumors (SOT) are very rare tumors.

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SOTs are local infiltrating lesion described as aggressive, odontogenic, and epithelial.

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HBOT can be used as supportive therapy in SOT.

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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can accelerate wound healing and minimize the possibility of postoperative infection.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Does Not Have a Negative Impact on Bone Signaling Pathways in Humans

Introduction: Oxygen is emerging as an important factor in the local regulation of bone remodeling. Some preclinical data suggest that hyperoxia may have deleterious effects on bone cells. However, its clinical relevance is unclear. Hence, we studied the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on serum biomarkers reflecting the status of the Wnt and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) pathways, two core pathways for bone homeostasis. Materials and methods: This was a prospective study of 20 patients undergoing HBOT (mean age 58 yrs., range 35–82 yrs.) because of complications of radiotherapy or chronic anal fissure. Patients were subjected to HBOT (100% oxygen; 2.4 atmospheres absolute for 90 min). The average number of HBOT sessions was 20 ± 5 (range 8–31). Serum hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF1-α), osteoprotegerin (OPG), RANKL, and the Wnt inhibitors sclerostin and dickkopf-1 (DKK1) were measured at baseline and after HBOT by using specific immunoassays. Results: HIF-1α in eight patients with measurable serum levels increased from 0.084 (0.098) ng/mL at baseline to 0.146 (0.130) ng/mL after HBOT (p = 0.028). However, HBOT did not induce any significant changes in the serum levels of OPG, RANKL, sclerostin or DKK1. This was independent of the patients’ diagnosis, either neoplasia or benign. Conclusion: Despite the potential concerns about hyperoxia, we found no evidence that HBOT has any detrimental effect on bone homeostasis.

Radiation therapy in head and neck cancer

This review summarizes the beginning of radiotherapy, techniques of modern radiation therapy with different types, toxicities induced by radiotherapy and their management. Head and neck radiation therapy is still improving for the better management and control of the cancer and induced radiotherapy toxicities.

Alendronate Alleviated Femoral Head Necrosis and Upregulated BMP2/EIF2AK3/EIF2A/ATF4 Pathway in Liquid Nitrogen Treated Rats

Background

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) seriously affects the quality of life and labor ability of patients. It is urgent and vital to find the methods for necrosis clinical treatment.

Objective

This study aims to study the potential protective effects of Alendronate in the early stage of femur head necrosis.

Methods

Ten clinal ONFH tissue samples were employed. H&E staining was employed for the observation of the pathological characteristics of ONFH. The rat model (n=12) was established by the treatment of liquid nitrogen and then treated with Alendronate. The protein expression of BMP2, EIF2AK3, EIF2A and ATF4 were detected via Western blotting and IHC.

Results

Fibrin and necrotizing granulation tissue were observed in ONFH tissues with lymphocytes and plasma cells infiltrating in the necrotic area, exhibiting the inflammatory muscle with abnormal shape and color. In the Model group, the BMP2 and ATF4 were mainly distributed in the cell boundaries. The relative protein expression of BMP2, EIF2AK3, EIF2A, ATF4 was decreased in the Model group, compared to the NC group, which was partially recovered by the Alendronate application.

Conclusion

Alendronate application partially reversed the suppression of expression of BMP2, EIF2AK3, EIF2A, ATF4 caused by liquid nitrogen. Alendronate could be a promising strategy of curing ONFH via targeting BMP2/EIF2AK3/EIF2A/ATF4 pathway.

Case report of osteomyelitis of the mandible in osteopetrosis and management considerations

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Management guidelines in mandibular osteomyelitis in Osteopetrosis.

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A female patient with osteopetrosis presented osteomyelitis after teeth extraction.

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Our case suggests the importance to maintain at maximum existing mandibular bone.

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Dental prevention could reduce occurrence of osteomyelitis in Osteopetrosis.

Introduction and importance

Osteopetrosis is a poorly known and probably underdiagnosed pathology. It is caused by various genetic abnormalities resulting in osteoclast dysfunction. Functional and aesthetic consequences have a major impact on the patient’s quality of life. Ten percent of osteopetrosis cases develop osteomyelitis that usually involves the mandible. Management of this complication remains complex and often unsatisfactory.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 62-year-old woman with osteopetrosis, complicated by mandibular osteomyelitis with intra-oral bone exposure and submental fistulas. Management was performed with antibiotic therapy and surgical necrotic resection. This cured the fistulas but the bone exposure persisted.

Discussion

This case report highlights the difficulty of achieving complete healing of osteomyelitis in osteopetrosis. Antibiotic therapy, surgical management, or even hyperbaric oxygen therapy are required, but must be adapted to the case. A free flap procedure is undesirable but, when it is necessary, a bone marrow transplant could be considered to restore osteoclast function.

Conclusion

The management of mandibular osteomyelitis in patients with osteopetrosis must adapt to the situation and severity. To avoid most cases of osteomyelitic complications in patients suffering from osteopetrosis, we propose that a preventive strategy of better dental care should be considered.

Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

OBJECTIVES

Antiresorptive agents for bone pain were widely used to treat patients with advanced osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, and bone metastatic cancer. In recent years, however, bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) has been a rare but major complication of this therapy. Most patients with BRONJ undergo dental procedures during treatment with antiresorptive agents. However, BRONJ may also occur spontaneously. This study reports 13 BRONJ patient cases at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, and their related treatments. We also compare patients with cancer with patients with osteoporosis in treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Thirteen symptomatic patients with BRONJ were reviewed between 1985 and 2018 at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. We included patients at advanced stage who were hospitalized for infection control of osteonecrosis of the jaw and excluded asymptomatic patients at stage 0 and stage 1. Four multiple myeloma, 3 patients with bone metastatic breast cancer and 6 patients with advanced osteoporosis (average ages, 63.57 ± 14.54 years in cancer patients and 79.5 ± 9.31 years in osteoporosis patients; average drug durations, 25.86 ± 27.23 months in cancer patients and 58.33 ± 23.87 months in osteoporosis patients; average follow-up times, 22.71 ± 14.46 months in cancer patients and 28.08 ± 36.35 months in osteoporosis patients) were included.

RESULTS

Seven patients were defined as having stage 3 (53.8%) and 6 as having stage 2 (46.2%) medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons classification. The complete response rate with totally healed mucosa was 61.5%. Four cancer patients received free fibular flap (FFF) reconstruction with a high complete response rate (100%). All of them had a relatively better performance status, and the average age was also younger than osteoporosis patients.

CONCLUSION

Free fibular flap with a high complete response rate may improve pain relief and infection control for patients with BRONJ. Younger age is seemed to be a great indicator for FFF, but poor self-care ability (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status >3) is not suitable for these surgical treatments.

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.

Orofacial manifestations of SAPHO syndrome: a systematic review of case reports

SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis) syndrome is a poorly known disease with cutaneous and osteo-articular manifestations requiring a multidisciplinary care. The aim of this study was to review the case reports that have described oral manifestations in patients suffering for this syndrome. A systematic review of case reports was performed on PubMed and Science Direct on January 2020 among all the articles dealing with the disease. In vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies have not been included to select only the case reports. Eighteen articles, published between 1999 and 2019, were included. All the patients presented mandibular osteomyelitis or sclerosis, associated with various other symptoms such as trismus, temporomandibular joint arthritis, or dysphagia. The data highlight the high variability in the disease's manifestations between people and also in the treatments applied. Knowing the orofacial signs of the SAPHO syndrome, the dental surgeon has a crucial role in the diagnosis procedure and must take place in the multidisciplinary medical team involved in the patient following. Some care adaptations are needed for oral interventions in these patients, depending on their treatments and their handicap. Key Points • Orofacial manifestations of SAPHO syndrome mainly occur on the mandible. • In cases of mandible sclerosis, decorticalization surgeries may be performed. • Oral care are encouraged, especially the preventive treatments to limit the necessity of surgeries. • The complexity in the management of patients suffering for a SAPHO syndrome concerns the oral manifestations, the patient general health and the treatments he has to take every day.

Conservative non-surgical management in medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw: A retrospective study

Objectives

To date, the best treatment for Medication Related Osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is controversial. Recent studies suggest different therapies, considering the stage of MRONJ; however, sometimes patients, although with remarkable extension of disease, cannot undergo surgery. The purpose of present preliminary study was to evaluate the efficacy of conservative non‐surgical treatment of MRONJ lesions in a cohort of patients ineligible for surgery or refusing any surgical treatment for stage II and III of MRONJ.

Materials and methods

Patients with MRONJ (staging II or III) ineligible for surgical treatment were selected for a retrospective study. A conservative non‐surgical therapy (antibiotics and antiseptic) was administered for 1 year. Five scheduled checks were performed to assess changes in signs and symptoms during the observational period.

Results

Our observation was carried out on 12 patients. Improvement of signs and symptoms of disease were observed in population.

Conclusion

This study suggests that non‐surgical treatment may be a valid therapeutic option in patients ineligible for surgery. The sample size is small, further studies should be carried out to satisfy the aim of a conservative non‐surgical treatment protocol establishment.

Clinical utility of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in dentistry

This fuller impact of the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy within dentistry is taking greater notice with newer research findings. There are new advancements in research regarding postradiotherapy cases, osteonecrosis of the jaw, osteomyelitis, periodontal disease, and dental implants. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can even be used in conjunction with other procedures such as bone grafting. Although the research and clinical utility has come a long way, there are several complications to be mindful of during the application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Chinese expert group consensus on diagnosis and clinical management of osteoradionecrosis of the mandible

Osteoradionecrosis of the mandible (MORN) is one of the most devastating complications caused by radiation therapy in the head and neck region. It is characterized by infection and chronic necrosis of the mandible as the main manifestation. Clinically, MORN-related symptoms include swelling, pain, dysphagia, trismus, masticatory or speech disorders, refractory orocutaneous fistula, bone exposure, and even pathological fracture. MORN has become a challenging clinical problem for oral and maxillofacial surgeons to deal with, but thus far, this problem has not been solved due to the lack of widely accepted treatment algorithms or guidelines. Because of the nonexistence of standardized treatment criteria, most clinical treatment against MORN nowadays is largely based on controversial empirical understandings, while recommendations on post-therapeutic evaluations are scarce. Therefore, to further unify and standardize the diagnosis and treatment of MORN, to decrease the huge waste of medical resources, and ultimately, to improve the wellbeing of the patients, the Chinese Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (CSOMS) convened an expert panel specialized in MORN from 16 domestic medical colleges and affiliated hospitals to discuss the spectrum of diagnosis and and formulate treatment. In addition, consensus recommendations were also revised with a comprehensive literature review of the previous treatment experiences and research pearls. This 'expert consensus statement on diagnosis and clinical management of MORN' is for clinical reference.

Potential role of the compound Eucommia bone tonic granules in patients with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis is a major source of pain, disability, and socioeconomic cost worldwide. Osteonecrosis is a disabling disorder that frequently occurs in the younger population aged from 20-50 years. The compound Eucommia bone tonic granules, a traditional Chinese medicine, can alleviate the damage of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis.

AIM

To investigate the potential role of the compound Eucommia bone tonic granules (Eucommia) in the treatment of patients with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis.

METHODS

One-hundred forty osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis cases admitted to our hospital from January 2013 to December 2017 were selected. Patients were divided into two groups: Eucommia-meloxicam group and meloxicam group. Clinical efficacy and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score were evaluated according to the evaluation criteria of orthopedic diseases. The levels of bone-GLA protein, interleukin-17, recombinant human S100 calcium binding protein A12, sphingosine 1-phosphate, cystatin C, creatinine, and hemoglobin in peripheral blood were determined.

RESULTS

The total effective rate in the two osteoarthritis groups was not different, but the total effective rate in the two osteonecrosis groups was significantly different. The overall efficacy of Eucommia-meloxicam group was superior to that of the meloxicam group. WOMAC showed that pain, stiffness, and dysfunction in the two groups of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis before and after treatment were significantly different. The concentration of recombinant human S100 calcium binding protein A12, sphingosine 1-phosphate, cystatin C, creatinine, and hemoglobin before and after treatment in the Eucommia-meloxicam group and meloxicam group of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis were significantly different, and the two treatment groups were significantly different from each other for osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that Eucommia can effectively enhance the curative effect of meloxicam, and the combination of Eucommia and meloxicam is superior to meloxicam alone.

Impact of Hyperbaric Oxygen on the Healing of Teeth Extraction Sockets and Alveolar Ridge Preservation

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) in the healing of teeth extraction sockets and in alveolar ridge preservation. This may provide an experimental basis for the widespread application of HBO in oral implantation.

METHODS

A total of 32 beagle dogs were included in the study and randomly divided equally between an HBO group treated with hyperbaric oxygen (100% O₂, 2.4 atm, 90 min/day, 5 times/week, 6 weeks) and a normobaric oxygen (NBO) group treated with normal air in the same chamber. The lateral incisors of the maxillary and mandible of each dog were extracted, and the right upper and lower incisor extraction sockets (A2C2) were allowed to heal naturally, while left upper and lower incisor sockets (B2D2) received implants of a commercial bone substitute. At 4 and 8 weeks after surgery, clinical observation, cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT), histomorphology observation, and expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) were analyzed to evaluate new bone formation, mineralization, and reconstruction.

RESULTS

After 4 and 8 weeks, bone width and lip contour of the extraction socket in the NBO group were significantly reduced and collapsed in comparison with the HBO group. CBCT showed that the difference in vertical height between the alveolar crest of the labial tongue and palatal side of the extraction sockets was smaller in the HBO than NBO group. There was a significant difference in new bone formation (P < 0.05) and bone mineral density (P < 0.05) between the HBO and NBO groups, and the HBO group showed significantly greater new bone and bone reconstruction based on histology. Furthermore, the expression levels of VEGF and BMP-2 were higher in the HBO group.

CONCLUSION

HBO reduced bone resorption and promoted early bone formation, bone mineralization, and reconstruction in the extraction sockets. HBO greatly reduced the healing time of the extraction sockets and promoted alveolar ridge preservation, thus showing promise for the clinic.

Maxillary osteomyelitis associated with osteopetrosis: Systematic review

Osteopetrosis is a rare condition which presents increased bone density and deficient bone remodeling. The consequential complications include cranial nerve impairment due compression, bone fractures, and osteomyelitis. Maxillary osteomyelitis is uncommon even in osteopetrosis patients. This is a systematic review of the literature regarding the management and outcomes of maxillary osteomyelitis in patients with autosomal dominant osteopetrosis (ADO) type II. A case of this specific pathology is reported. There are 18 cases of maxillary osteomyelitis associated with ADO type II reported in the literature. The mean age of the patients reported was 33.5 (SD 15.9) years, and the male:female ratio was 1:1. Antibiotic therapy was variable, and amoxicillin with clavulanic acid was the main choice (33.33%). Surgery or sequestrectomy was performed in 88.89% of the studies. Complete healing was achieved in only 44.4% of cases. The treatment protocols remain controversial and often do not lead to complete healing. In the case that we report, complete healing was achieved after prolonged antibiotic therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and partial resection. In conclusion, the management of maxillary osteomyelitis in ADO type II patients is challenging, and complete resolution of the process is dependent on multiple interventions.