Comparison of Treatment Outcomes of Bisphophonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws (BRONJ) According To Location of Lesion and Patient Demographic Factors

The aim of this study was to compare incidence and treatment outcomes of bisphophonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) according to the location of lesion and patient demographics such as sex and age. A retrospective study on patients who visited Seoul National University Dental Hospital, Seoul, Korea from January 2004 to January 2014 was conducted through chart review. Among the patients, those diagnosed with BRONJ were categorized by location of lesion, treatment modalities, and treatment outcomes. Demographic factors were also noted. By far the most common treatment method was sequestrectomy along with IV or PO antibiotic therapy. Treatment outcomes ranged from merely palliative effect to complete remission, but only a few cases fell under the latter category. With ever-increasing number of bisphophonate prescriptions in the field of medicine and concomitant increase in incidence of BRONJ, it is strongly advised that medical doctors consider patients' oral status or, even better, make formal dental consults before prescibing bisphophonates.