Osteonecrosis of the jaw in a patient under treatment of osteoporosis with oral bisphosphonate

A Case Report of Ibandronic Acid Induced Non-Exposed BRONJ Involving the Maxillary Sinus

Background

The aim of this case report is to present an interesting case of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, involving the maxilla and the maxillary sinus, as a result of per os administration of ibandronic acid.

Methods

A female patient, 62 years old, was referred to the Department of Dentoalveolar Surgery, Surgical Implantology and Radiology, School of Dentistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, complaining about pain in the first quadrant. Her medical history revealed per os bisphosphonate administration for the past four years. Subsequently, the cone-beam computed tomography examination revealed a small sequestrum of bone, surrounded by radiolucency, in proximity with the sinus floor. The clinical examination didn't reveal any pathological clinical signs.

Results

Based on the radiological examination, a surgical approach was implemented to remove the necrotic bone, irrigate the alveolar process and the sinus with saline, and finally achieve primary closure, after which, the patient healed uneventfully. The osteonecrosis was attributed to the bisphosphonate administration.

Conclusions

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw without obvious or with minor implication of gingival tissues is a diagnostic challenge indicating an early stage of this adverse reaction. Imaging is critical for the early detection of those cases. After careful choice of the case the proper surgical intervention could be effective to eliminate a future advancement of bone destruction. The prevention of osteonecrosis of the jaw can be achieved through the provision of adequate education to dental medicine practitioners, medical doctors, and patients.