Objectives: There is no general consensus for treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). A stage-related approach that primarily aims to minimize morbidity and preserve function was prospectively evaluated.
Patients and methods: Treatment goals are stable mucosal closure and absence of clinical symptoms. Patients were enrolled between March 2010 and October 2011. MRONJ lesions were treated either by conservative means or surgically by debridement or resective surgery.
Results: In total, 38 patients were treated. Six patients were healed by undergoing conservative measures; nine were treated palliatively. Four patients dropped out after surgery in the recall phase. In 17 of 19 patients (89.5%) surgical treatment was successful. After a 1-year observation period, the success rate was 92% (23 of 25), including all patients treated as per protocol.
Conclusion: In stage-related treatment, conservative means or surgical debridement can be successful at early stages. Extensive resection is solely indicated in cases of extended necrosis.
Clinical relevance: The number of patients with MRONJ is steadily increasing. Guidelines to deal with this condition are helpful for both clinicians and dental practitioners.