Photobiomodulation and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as adjunct in the treatment and prevention of osteoradionecrosis of the jaws: A case report

Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther. 2020 Sep:31:101959. doi: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2020.101959. Epub 2020 Aug 18.

Abstract

We report on a patient with a history of radiotherapy to the head and neck region exhibiting necrotic bone exposure associated with fistula and purulent exudation in the mandible, with the diagnosis of stage 3 osteoradionecrosis, in addition to a periapical cyst in the maxillary anterior region and multiple root remnants. An antibiotic coverage protocol with amoxicillin and metronidazole was prescribed for subsequent necrotic bone removal. The surgical procedure was performed along with the aPDT using methylene blue and red light, followed by coaptation of the edges of the surgical wound and the healing protocol with LLLT. The extraction of non-rehabilitated teeth was performed two per session using antibiotic coverage, aPDT, and LLLT and mouthwash with 0.12 % chlorhexidine was prescribed until the complete closure of the surgical wound was achieved. Additionally, two aPDT sessions and four LLLT protocols were performed for complete healing of the surgical sites. Extra and intraoral examinations and panoramic and periapical radiographs were performed. No emergence or recurrence of osteonecrosis was observed after 12 months of follow-up.

Keywords: Laser therapy; Osteonecrosis; Photodynamic therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Infective Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Jaw
  • Osteoradionecrosis* / drug therapy
  • Osteoradionecrosis* / prevention & control
  • Photochemotherapy* / methods
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Photosensitizing Agents