Neuralgia-inducing cavitational osteonecrosis - Fact or myth, the debate persists

Fatty Degenerative Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Bridging Molecular Insights and Clinical Practice-A Scoping Review

Fatty degenerative osteonecrosis of the jaw (FDOJ) is a chronic, aseptic inflammatory condition that is characterized by molecular disruptions in bone metabolism and necrotic bone marrow within the jawbone cavities. In contrast to the overt clinical signs typically observed in osteopathies, FDOJ frequently presents with a "silent inflammation" phenotype. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were searched using appropriate search terms, and the methodology was performed according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The elevated expression of inflammatory mediators, particularly C-C motif Chemokine Ligand-5/Regulated on Activation, Normal T Cell Expressed and Secreted (CCL5/RANTES), fibroblast growth factor-2, and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, distinguishes FDOJ at the molecular level and links it to systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. These immunohistochemical markers play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation, immune response regulation, and abnormal bone remodeling. Advanced diagnostic tools, such as conebeam computed tomography and trans-alveolar ultrasonography, facilitate the detection of pathological changes that are not easily discernible with conventional radiography. Surgical intervention remains the primary treatment modality, often complemented by therapies that target these molecular pathways to modulate chronic inflammation. This article underscores the importance of integrating molecular diagnostics, advanced imaging, and clinical data for effective FDOJ detection and management.

The persistently sensitive or painful osseointegrated implant

OBJECTIVE

To determine why some implants can appear to be well osseointegrated with no signs of infection and yet can remain sensitive to percussion and painful and unable to tolerate the weight of a restoration.

STUDY DESIGN

Five patients were identified who between them had 7 implants that met the criteria of being persistently painful and sensitive to percussion while appearing to be well integrated and otherwise disease free. High-definition cone beam computed tomography scans were obtained for all patients. All patients had failed medical treatment.

RESULTS

The cone beam computed tomography scans showed radiolucent channels running from the nearest nerve trunk to the vicinity of the sensitive implants. These may represent neurovascular channels that originally supplied the teeth that were present at the site of the implants, and they may have terminal neuromas that neuromas may be irritated by the implant. In all cases removal of the offending implant caused either substantial or complete relief of discomfort.

CONCLUSION

The presence of terminal neuromas within the jaws may be responsible for persistent pain and sensitivity in an otherwise well-integrated and disease-free implant. Removal of the offending implant appears to be the only treatment.