Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of arthroscopic lysis and lavage on pain in patients with unilateral Wilkes stage III derangement of the temporomandibular joint. Authors retrospectively evaluated whether the arthroscopic lysis and lavage has an impact on pain decrease in patients with moderate osteoarthritis. Methods Patients with unilateral Wilkes III of temporomandibular joint were included in this study. All patients underwent arthroscopic lysis and lavage (ASC-L), assessed pain before and after the procedure (primary outcome variable), maximal interincisal opening (MIO) was recorded as secondary outcome variable. The patients also subjectively assessed whether they were satisfied with the outcome of the arthroscopy or whether their condition required further interventions. The disc position was evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 24 months after the arthroscopy and compared with the disc position on the MRI prior to the arthroscopy. The R Project for Statistical Computing 3.4.1 and the Gretl Pro programs were used for statistical analysis. In addition to the descriptive statistics methods, the Shapiro-Wilk normality test was used to verify data normality and the two sample t test used to test the hypotheses themselves. Results The sample consisted of 62 patients who underwent arthroscopic lysis and lavage (ASC-L) in 2015 and 2016. It included 6 men and 56 women with an average age of 34.37. Pain and MIO were recorded during regular check-ups 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. A therapeutic effect (MIO over 34 mm, VAS score 0–1) was recorded in 69% of cases 24 months after the ASC-L. Nonetheless, the work demonstrated the importance of subjective assessment, as 87% of patients perceived their condition as satisfactory after 24 months and not requiring further intervention, while 8 patients (13%) perceived it as unsatisfactory. Disc reposition 24 months following the ASC-L was recorded in only 44% of patients who assessed their condition as satisfactory. Patients with persistent disc dislocation 24 months after the arthroscopy were older, had a lower average maximal interincisal opening value before the ASC-L and a longer duration of mandibular movement restriction before the ASC-L (evaluated as a statistically significant difference). Conclusion In this study, the authors confirmed that ASC-L is an effective therapeutic method in patients with WIII, from both clinical and subjective perspectives. This work demonstrated that improvement in patients with Wilkes stage III is not related to disc reposition. Postoperative physiotherapy is an integral component of ASC-L and is reflected in the final results.

Abstract Purpose The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcomes in patients with subcondylar fracture of mandible treated with 2 single miniplates compared to a 3-dimensional (3D) plate. Patients and methods This is a retrospective study which included patients diagnosed and treated for mandibular subcondylar fracture from January 2015 to December 2019. Included patients were divided into two groups, group 1: 2 miniplate group and group 2: 3D plate group. The data was obtained from the patients’ records and evaluated for various outcomes including occlusal stability, postoperative complications like plate fracture, non-union, plate or screw loosening, and plate or screw infection leading to implant removal, wound dehiscence, salivary fistula, and facial nerve paralysis. The statistical analysis was performed using chi square test and Student’s t test. Results A total 58 patients (43 males and 15 females) were enrolled in the two groups ranging from 21 to 59 years. A total of 35 patients were recruited in group 1, whereas 23 patients were recruited in group 2. There was no statistically significant difference in the two groups with regard to the age range, gender, diagnosis, side of fracture, and accompanying fractures. Occlusal instability, wound dehiscence, and facial nerve paralysis was found in both the groups. Group 1 had 1 patient which required implant removal due to screw loosing, whereas group 2 had 2 patients which required plate removal due to plate fracture. One patient in group 2 required second surgery for fixation of fracture due to non-union. One patient in group 1 developed a sialocele postoperatively. However, there was no statistically significant difference in any of the variables assessed among the two groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion The results of our study indicate that the 2 miniplates and 3D plate system are effective in the management of mandibular subcondylar fractures.

Abstract Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an uncommon adverse drug reaction that can be induced by certain therapeutic drugs, including antiresorptive and antiangiogenic agents. Here, we describe the first case of ONJ induced by bosutinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who was not taking an antiresorptive agent. A 65-year-old male with no history of either antiresorptive treatment or dental surgery but diagnosed with CML had been undergoing treatment with bosutinib for 2 years. He developed right mandibular stage 2 osteonecrosis. The patient eventually underwent extensive surgery consisting of removal of the necrotic bone and infected soft tissue in combination with nasolabial flap reconstruction. He obtained complete resolution of MRONJ at 12 months postoperatively. As new cancer therapies become available, it is important that clinicians are aware of this novel case of bosutinib-induced ONJ in a patient undergoing CML treatment.

Abstract Purpose The aim of the present study was to perform a comparative analysis of the utility, outcomes, and complications of DCIA (deep circumflex iliac artery) flap for the reconstruction of maxillofacial defects between two institutions that continue to use the DCIA flap as a reconstructive resource. Materials and methods This retrospective analysis included a total of 68 patients (mean age 51.1 years) at the University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA, between January 2010 and April 2019. Results No statistical differences were found in relation to the site of reconstruction (p = 0.09), bone graft quantity (p = 0.93), rehabilitation with dental implants (p = 0.464), length of hospitalization (p = 0.086), BMI (0.677), swallow function (p = 0.419), medical comorbidities (p = 0.933), pre-existing radiation (p = 0.691), adjuvant treatment (p = 0.298), ECOG-PS pre-and post-surgery (p = 0.329; p = 0.545), and flap failure: one partial failure observed (p = 0.412) and donor site morbidities (p = 0.742). A noted trend to increased risk of hernia without the use of a primary mesh repair was observed (p = 0.059). Conclusion The DCIA free flap represents a useful and reliable reconstructive flap for maxillofacial reconstruction. Reconstructive microvascular surgeons should be proficiently trained in this flap technique for its consideration as a first-line option in maxillofacial reconstruction.

Abstract Purpose The primary objective of this study is to delineate the data on maxillofacial trauma in rugby utilizing the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database. Specifically, we want to establish the prevalence of facial rugby injuries in terms of age, mechanism of injury, and degree of injury in order to develop ways to limit facial trauma in the future. Methods The NEISS database was accessed in February 2020 in order to identify adult patients (> 19 years of age) presenting to the emergence department (ED) for rugby-related head and facial injuries from the previous 10 years (2009–2018). Descriptive statistics were organized and presented. Chi-squared testing (χ2) was performed to compare categorical variables, and ANOVA was performed to compare continuous variables. Results A total of 507 patients (national estimate = 18,952) from 2009 to 2018 were identified as appropriate for study inclusion. The most common injuries were those to the facial region including the eyelid, eye area, and nose (59.4%). The most frequently encountered facial fracture while playing rugby was the nasal bone (58.6%). Overall, 98.4% of patients who presented to the ED with rugby injuries were treated and released, 1.2% were admitted or observed, and 0.4% left against medical advice. Conclusions When evaluating a patient with a rugby-related injury, one should expect injuries to the eyelid, eye area, or nose. The most common fracture pattern will most likely be nasal bone. Despite these injuries, the vast majority of patients will be treated and released.

Abstract Purpose Malignant tumours in the parotid gland can originate either from the gland itself or as a result of metastatic spread of other tumours, such as cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (CSCC) of the head and neck area. The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the clinical behaviour of primary as well as CSCC metastatic parotid cancers with special emphasis on therapy and oncologic outcome. Methods Clinical and histopathological data of 342 patients with parotid gland malignomas surgically treated in a tertiary referral centre between 1987 and 2015 were retrospectively assessed. Oncologic outcomes of all cases with CSCC metastasis of the parotid gland (n = 49) were compared to those of primary parotid gland carcinomas (n = 293). Results Mean age at diagnosis was 72.3 years for CSCC patients versus 56.8 years in patients with primary parotid carcinoma. A total of 83.7% of CSCC patients were male, compared to 48.8% in the group of primary carcinomas. Forty-five out of 49 CSCC patients underwent total parotidectomy and neck dissection (91.8%). A total of 93.9% out of all CSCC patients received adjuvant radiotherapy. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 32.6% in CSCC patients versus 77.2% in primary parotid carcinoma patients. Conclusion As compared to primary parotid cancers, we could show that patients suffering from CSCC metastases to the parotid gland presented with significantly higher age and worse survival.

Abstract Purpose To compare resorbable plates with titanium plates for the fixation of zygomatic fractures, taking into account postoperative complications. Methods This systematic review followed the guidelines of PRISMA and the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook and was registered in PROSPERO. The electronic search was performed in the Web of Science, PubMed, Virtual Health Library, and Cochrane Library databases and in the gray literature. The study selection and the data extraction were performed by three calibrated and independent researchers. The assessment of the risk of bias in the studies was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for clinical trials. Meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager Software version 5.3, using the Peto’s Odds Ratios (PORs), and when I2 > 30, the random effect model was used. The evaluation of the quality of the evidence was carried out through GRADE. Results A total of 2651 studies were screened and only nine were included; 7 of which were used for quantitative assessment. The follow-up time for patients ranged from 6 months to 5 years. All studies showed a low risk of bias in the “incomplete outcome data” domain. The need for plate removal (POR: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.81, I2 = 0%) and dehiscence (POR 0.12, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.63, I2 = not applied) was lower for the group of patients who used resorbable plates than for titanium plates. Conclusion There was no difference in the occurrence of infection, diplopia, or paresthesia between the fixation methods. Resorbable plates showed better postoperative clinical performance.

Abstract Introduction Well leg compartment syndrome is a rare postoperative condition that occurs as a result of non-traumatic ischemic insult. It has similar pathophysiology to compartment syndrome; however, no definitive etiology is identified. Several risk factors such as patient position, leg position, young age, and high BMI for the development of this condition are considered. Case report A 30 years old male smoker and overweight, underwent mandibular and maxillary osteotomies in reverse Trendelenburg position. He developed a WLCS post-operative and treated with fasciotomy. Conclusion Increased Awareness of this rare occurrence and predisposition aids in understanding and prompt management. This article provides a rare case that has occurred in reverse Trendelenburg position with less obvious risk factors than typically reported in the literature

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL) before and after surgical treatment of orbital blow-out fracture. Methods This prospective study comprises of all adult patients undergoing a surgical reconstruction of an orbital blow-out fracture in 2006–2010. Their HRQoL was evaluated for 6 months postoperatively with the aid of the standardized 15D instrument and was compared with that of an age- and gender-standardized sample of the general Finnish population. A complementary questionnaire for more detailed information was also administered. Results Twenty-six patients completed the study. Mean 15D score among the patients preoperatively (0.898) was statistically significantly and clinically importantly worse than the score of the control population (0.936). Six months postoperatively, the mean 15D score was 0.920, with no significant difference compared with the control population and the significant differences on the different dimensions had disappeared. The most common complaint at 6 months postoperatively was diplopia in daily life (19%). Disturbances in facial sensation (27%) and defects in facial appearance (15%) were the most unpleasant subjective outcomes. Conclusion The HRQoL is significantly decreased after orbital blow-out fracture compared with the general population but will recover completely in 6 months. Thus, the negative impact of orbital blow-out fracture on HRQoL is only transient. Disturbances in facial sensation, defects in facial appearance, and diplopia are the most common subjective complaints after the injury and its surgical treatment. However, these do not appear to affect the overall quality of life in the long term.

Abstract Purpose The teeth positioning may be an important associated factor for the pericoronitis’ clinical signs. Our objective was to verify the association between lower third molar position according to the Pell and Gregory classification and clinical variables in patients with pericoronitis. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of panoramic radiographs and medical records of patients with pericoronitis. Primary outcomes: pain and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL); secondary outcomes: mouth opening, edema/erythema extension, visible plaque index, bleeding on probing index, periodontal pocket probing depth, and distal alveolar bone crest height of the adjacent second molar. Results The edema/erythema extension was higher in the IIA position compared with the IA position (p = 0.03). Regarding the OHRQoL, the OHIP-14 score was 21.0 (± 9.26, range from 4 to 44). The most scored domain was physical pain (5.24), followed by psychological discomfort (4.43). Third molars in IIA position are associated with worse OHRQoL than IB and IIB positions (p = 0.03). Conclusions There was a higher extension of edema/erythema and worse OHRQoL when the third molar was in IIA position. Prophylactic removal of mandibular third molar in position IIA may avoid the onset of mucosal edema/erythema and prevent pericoronitis from promoting impairment of individuals’ quality of life.

Abstract Purpose We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and utility of intraoral ultrasound as a real-time guidance technique in trans-oral robotic surgery (TORS). Methods We report our early experiences of radiologist-operated intraoral ultrasound during TORS, providing information on tumour margin and important adjacent structures. Resection specimens were sonographically imaged for margin assessment. Results Four patients underwent ultrasound-guided TORS, with a close correlation between intraoperative and preoperative imaging in each case. The tumour was fully excised in three cases (one did not proceed due to difficult access). No ultrasound-related adverse events occurred, surgical margins were negative, and the treated patients are currently in a state of remission, with functional swallows. Conclusion Intraoperative ultrasound can allow previously inaccessible disease to be robotically resected with confidence. Sonographic interrogation of the resected specimen correlated closely with histological margin analysis, and a novel technique of using saline to improve ultrasound conductance and therefore image quality is described.

Abstract The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis describes the bone or fibrous adhesion of the TMJ components, with functional impairment. The present report shows the surgical correction the TMJ ankylosis due to a condyle fracture in a child. A 12-year-old patient, female, attended to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of the Clinical Hospital/Federal University of Uberlândia, showing severe mouth opening limitation (9 mm) and history of bilateral condyle fracture and symphysis fracture. The right TMJ ankylosis was diagnosed, removed, reshaped, and repositioned to form the reshaped condyle, by the sliding reconstruction of the condyle using posterior border of mandibular ramus and myofascial interposition of the temporal fascia. Five months of follow-up showed mouth opening of 44 mm maintained after 2 years, without complaints. The surgical treatment of the TMJ ankylosis is needed for the reestablishment of the immediate function; however, the patient must be watched until the end of development.

Abstract Purpose Water recreation is one of the most popular activities for both fitness and leisure. The dangers of water activities have mostly been examined in the context of drowning and general bodily injuries. Despite the existing research, little is known about adult maxillofacial injuries in these settings. Methods We accessed the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System in order to identify adult patients presenting to emergency departments with traumatic maxillofacial injuries secondary to a water-based sport or activity over the most recent 10-year period (2009–2018). Data collected included demographical information, anatomical location, mechanism of injury, and visit circumstances, as well as visit disposition. Results A total of 1350 total patients were identified as appropriate for study inclusion. Young, Caucasian male adults were the most common age group to present with maxillofacial injuries secondary to water sport activities. Surfing and water skiing were associated with lacerations, while diving board incidents posed a higher fracture risk. Patients participating in all water activities were more likely to be treated and released rather than admitted. Conclusion There appears to be a distinct pattern profile for individuals who sustain maxillofacial trauma while participating in water sports: young, Caucasian males in particular. Additionally, specific activities may be associated with varying injury types. The results of this study may increase interest in legislature and patient counseling when seeking such activities.

Abstract Purpose Various procedures have been adopted for eminence augmentation for treatment of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation. The aim of this study is to assess maximal incisal opening (MIO) using a custom-made titanium implant versus inlay autogenous augmentation from the patient’s chin for more stable condylar movements. Methods Ten patients were treated in this study (20 joints) five patients with bilateral patient-specific titanium onlay implant and five for autogenous inlay grafting technique; each implant in the study group was virtually designed using a specific software and milled from titanium grade V blocks, then fixed with mini screws at the lateral aspect of the zygomatic arch while in the control group, autogenous corticocancellous bone block was harvested from the chin and wedged at the created defect of the eminence to increase its height. Results The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 1 year to access the maximal incisal opening (MIO). The mean preoperative maximal incisal opening was 47.8 mm and that of the postoperative was 33.2 mm in the study group and 35.4 mm in the control group, respectively. One patient reported postoperative slight unilateral edema and pain that gradually diminishes after 1 month postoperative. Conclusion No statistical difference between both groups p value 0.3.

Abstract Purpose Dysbiosis has been identified in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review of an electronic research that was carried out on articles published between January 2008 and September 2018. Methods Eight studies were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results All articles targeted the hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene. At the phylum level, it was found reduction of Bacteroidetes (2/8 studies) and increase of Firmicutes (2/8 studies). At the genus level, Rothia increased (1/8 studies) and decreased (2/8 studies) in tumor samples, and Streptococcus also was found increased (3/8 studies) and reduced (3/8 studies). Fusobacterium only increased in OSCC samples (3/8 studies). At species level, an increase in F. nucleatum subsp. polymorphum was more associated to OSCC (2/8 studies) than with controls, as was P. aeruginosa (3/8 studies). Conclusion In summary, the results corroborated dysbiosis in OSCC patients, with enrichment of microbial taxa that are associated with inflammation and production of acetaldehyde. However, variations of study design and sample size were observed among the studies, as well as a shortage of more detailed analyses of possible correlations between risk habits and OSCC. This lack of more detailed analysis may be the cause of the inconsistencies in regard of the alterations reported for certain genera and species. In conclusion, there is an association between OSCC and oral microbiota dysbiosis, but its role in oral carcinogenesis needs to be clarified in more detail.

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to determine if the timing of administration of systemic enzyme therapy [SET] has any effect on its efficacy in controlling postoperative sequelae of third molar surgery. Study design A double blinded prospective randomized control trial was planned. The sample included patients requiring impacted mandibular third molar surgical extraction. Patients were randomly allocated to four groups (50 patients per group). Group A included administration of SET 48 h prior to surgery; Group B, started on the day of surgery; Group C started immediately after surgery and control group D included NSAIDS started 3 h after surgery. The predictor variable was timing of administration of SET. The primary outcome variables were pain and swelling measured on 1st day, 5th day, and 7th day after surgery. Findings Groups A and D reported lower mean and median VAS scores and lesser swelling than groups C and D on postop day 1. On days 5 and 7, all four groups were comparable. On overall analysis, no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was evident. Interpretation The results of the study showed that the differences in swelling and pain with starting the SET 2 days before, on the day of surgery, or immediately after when compared with diclofenac was not statistically significant. Trial registration CTRI Registration Number CTRI/2018/03/012502

Abstract Purpose This research evaluated clinical, histological, and radiological osseous regeneration in a critical-sized bilateral cortico-medullary osseous defect in model rabbits from New Zealand after receiving a hydroxyapatite matrix and polylactic polyglycolic acid (HA/PLGA) implanted with human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Methods Eight New Zealand rabbits with bilateral mandibular critical-sized defects were performed where one side was treated with an HA/PLGA/DPSC matrix and the other side only with an HA/PLGA matrix for 4 weeks. Results An osseointegration was clinically observed as well as a reduction of 70% of the surgical lumen on one side and a 35% on the other. Histologically, there was neo-bone formation in HA/PLGA/DPSC scaffold and angiogenesis. A bone radiodensity (RD) of 80% was radiologically observed achieving density levels similar to mandibular bone, while the treatment with HA/PLGA matrix achieves RD levels of 40% on its highest peaks. Conclusions HA/PLGA/DPSC scaffold was an effective in vivo method for mandibular bone regeneration in critical-sized defects induced on rabbit models.

Abstract Purpose Cripto-1 also known as teratoma-derived growth factor 1 (TDGF-1) belongs to the EGF-CFC family of growth factor-like molecules. Cripto-1 is involved with embryonic development and not expressed in adult tissue, but some tumours are accompanied by reactivation. Methods The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of Cripto-1 in most common odontogenic cysts and tumours. Thirty ameloblastomas, 30 keratocysts, 30 dentigerous cysts and two ameloblastic carcinomas were evaluated using the polymeric immunoperoxidase technique. Immunohistochemical expressions were analysed by the IRS (immunoreactive score). Statistical analyses were performed by the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests (p ≤ 0.05). Results Age ranged from 9 to 75 years old, with a prevalence of females (n = 49/53.3%). The mandible was the most affected anatomical site (n = 69/75.0%). Cripto-1 immunoexpression was observed in all ameloblastoma, keratocyst and ameloblastic carcinoma cases, although nine dentigerous cyst cases (30%) were negative. Expression scores were higher in ameloblastoma, keratocyst and ameloblastic carcinoma cases (median ranging from 8 to 11) when compared with dentigerous cyst cases (median of 2), with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Conclusions Cripto-1 is critically important in the progression of several tumours since it is related to significant cell survival and differentiation pathways. The high expression of Cripto-1 in more aggressive odontogenic lesions suggests that this molecule may be involved in the activation of important pathways related to the etiopathogenesis of these lesions.

Abstract Introduction Elongated mandibular coronoid process is a rare condition defined as enlargement of the coronoid process. The only useful way to treat the mouth-opening limitation is resection of the elongated coronoid process. Four-dimensional CT (4DCT; three spatial dimensions plus time axis) is a novel imaging technique. Its usefulness of for evaluation of dynamic movements such as joint motion has been reported. Here, we show the potential usefulness of 4DCT evaluation in a patient with elongated mandibular coronoid process. Case presentation A 59-year-old female who suffered from mouth-opening difficulty and pressure during mouth opening was referred to our department. Elongation of the right coronoid process was evident in a panoramic X-ray image. The mandibular movement and temporal muscle motility before and after coronoidectomy in this patient on 4DCT could be evaluated. Conclusions 4DCT is useful in the diagnosis and surgical outcome of elongated coronoid process.