Oral and oropharyngeal malignant minor salivary gland tumors: A retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Tumors of minor salivary gland origin are uncommon lesions, representing 2-3 % of all malignant neoplasms of the upper aerodigestive tract and 9-23 % of all salivary gland tumors. The aim of this study is to report the demographic features, sites, histological types and the management and outcomes of oral and oropharyngeal minor salivary gland tumors diagnosed and treated in a University Hospital with a multidisciplinary head and neck team.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective observational study was conducted in a cohort of patients who received diagnosis of minor salivary gland carcinoma of oropharynx and oral cavity between July 30th 2000 and 30th September 2021. The following data of the included patients were collected: age, gender, smoke history, alcohol consumption, past medical history, comorbidities, anatomic location of the tumor, histopathology, staging, management, and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 30 cases (16 females, 14 males) of oral and oropharyngeal minor salivary gland tumors were reviewed. The most frequent histotype was polymorphous adenocarcinoma (12 patients). The majority of patients presented with low stage at diagnosis, with 66,66 % of the population classified as stage I or II at diagnosis. On the whole, 29 patients out of 30 benefitted from a surgical approach as first treatment. In 11 patients, adjuvant radiotherapy was performed and in 6 cases it was associated with chemotherapy. Brachytherapy with different timing was performed in 5 cases. The recurrence rate was 26.66 %. Overall disease specific survival at five and ten years was found to be approximately 81 % and 33 % respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery is still considered to be the gold standard of the treatment of minor salivary gland tumors. Radiation therapy, in spite of not being considered as a curative primary treatment for salivary malignancies, is extensively used as an adjuvant treatment.

Quality of life in oncologic patients after maxillectomy operations: clinical case series on different rehabilitation protocols

OBJECTIVE

The study's purpose was to compare the quality of life (QoL) in oncologic patients treated with different rehabilitation protocols following maxillary tumor resections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The patients were divided into three groups. Group A: 18 Patients with maxillary obturator prosthesis. Group B: 17 Patients with simultaneous autologous tissue reconstruction. Group C: 12 Patients with prosthesis on zygomatic implants. The post-operative QoL was compared using standard questionnaires, investigating items like pain, mood, social relations, and specific functions that could potentially compromise the post-operative QoL. A secondary analysis compared reconstructed vs. non-reconstructed patients.

RESULTS

Most questionnaire items did not show significant differences among groups. Statistically significant outcomes were found in two parameters (social contact and sexuality), in which patients treated with zygomatic implants had the best satisfaction, and patients with obturator prostheses showed the lowest satisfaction. Patients belonging to the non-reconstructed group showed better moods than those in the reconstructed group, while taste problem complaints and pain were lower in the reconstructed group.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the type of reconstruction procedure depends on the type of maxillectomy to be performed and on the general health situation of each patient, the impact of the rehabilitation protocol on the patients' QoL should be accounted for when planning the treatment.

Breast Ductal Infiltrative Adenocarcinoma Metastasis to the Mandible

Metastatic lesions to the jaws are rare. The oral sites to which metastasis most commonly occur are the jaws, the gingiva, and the tongue. Lower jaw is a more frequent site of metastasis compared to the upper jaw with posterior areas (ramus, body) that are more prone to the deposition of cancerous cells due to presence of hematopoietic bone marrow, subdivision of local blood vessels and reduced velocity of blood flow. In fact, the formation of secondary foci of tumor colonization occurs by hematogenous dissemination of tumor emboli, that accumulate in regions with larger amounts of bone marrow and low circulatory velocity. In females, commonly seen metastatic lesions arise from primary neoplasms in breasts, colon, genitals and thyroid glands, whereas in males arise from lungs, prostate and colon region. Patients with metastatic jaw disease may be asymptomatic or may show various clinical signs and symptoms that include pain, swelling, paresthesia, foul smell, tooth mobility, exophytic growths of the soft tissues, reduced mouth opening and, infrequently, pathological fractures. In particular, metastasis in breast cancer is commonly seen in the lungs, liver, bones, pleura, brain, and kidneys, whereas breast cancer metastasis to the oral cavity is not common and is seen in only around 1% of the cases. Breast cancer can also be latent where the metastases appear years after treatment of the primary tumor. The presence of metastasis is highly important in determining the patient's prognosis and mode of treatment. The aim of the present article is to present and discuss the diagnosis of a breast cancer metastasis in the mandibular angle.

The use of Anatomage table for metastases to the oral region

INTRODUCTION

The Anatomage Table is a modern device characterized by virtual reality functionality that may be used to enhance the teaching of human anatomy to medical and allied health students. The purpose of the present study was to use the virtual dissection table (3D Anatomage) as an additional tool for education and information in cases of metastases to the oral region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hospital database of Vercelli Hospital, Vercelli, Italy, was searched for metastases to the oral region. DICOM data of Computed tomography scans were retrieved and uploaded in the Anatomage Table device. The workstation was used to obtain images of the body surface, "dissection cuts," or "vascular reconstructions," modifying the filters.

RESULTS

The reconstructed images of three cases of metastases to the oral region from pulmonary adenocarcinoma, pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma, and breast ductal infiltrative adenocarcinoma were produced and presented. Different filters were used.

DISCUSSION

The use of Anatomage Table, a touch interactive anatomy virtual dissection table used in anatomy education, thanks to the application of different filters, may represent a promising resource both for patients and students.

Patient's perception of recovery following surgical removal of mandibular third molars. A prospective european multi-center study

This study evaluated patient's perception of recovery following surgical removal of mandibular third molars (SRM3s) including analyze of potential risk factors associated with impaired convalescent. Patient related parameters combined with preoperative questionnaires including Modified Dental Anxiety Scale, Oral Health Impact Profile-14, and Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth index were correlated with questionnaires assessing pain, swelling, trismus, sick leave, social and working isolation, physical appearance, eating and speaking ability, diet variations, sleep impairment, impaired sensation of the lip, chin, and tongue, one month following SRM3s. Totally, 412 patients (223 females, 189 males) with mean age of 29.4 years were included. Treatment satisfaction and willingness to undergo similar surgery were reported by 92% and 95%, although 21% reported that the surgery and postoperative period had been worse than expected. Mean days with pain, sick leave, and swelling were 3.6, 2.1, and 3.6, respectively. Preoperative symptoms, dental anxiety level, and prolonged surgical time were associated with increased pain and swelling (P < 0.05). Pell and Gregory classification (I-IIIC) were associated with impaired sensation of the lower lip and chin (P < 0.05). Consequently, results from this study improve the surgeon's ability to predict parameters that predisposed to impaired recovery and neurosensory disturbances following SRM3s.

The epidemiology and management of odontomas: a European multicenter study

INTRODUCTION

Odontoma is the most commonly diagnosed odontogenic tumor of the oral cavity. The objective of the present study was to assess the demographic variables, patterns, diagnostic features, and management issues of odontomas treated at several European departments of maxillofacial and oral surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted at 8 European departments of oral surgery between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2018. Only patients with odontomas were included. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, comorbidities, site, size of odontomas, radiographic features, type of odontoma, treatment of odontomas, treatment of associated teeth, complications, and recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 127 patients (70 male and 57 female patients) with odontomas were included. The mean age was 22 years; 71 odontomas were found in the mandible, whereas 56 in the maxilla. In the mandible, the most frequently involved subsite was the parasymphysis, while in the maxilla, the most common subsite was the upper incisor region. The mean size of included odontomas was 15.3 mm. On the whole, 62 complex odontomas, 50 compound odontomas, and 15 mixed-type odontomas were observed. Complete excision of the odontomas was performed in 121 patients. In 24 patients, the extraction of deciduous teeth was performed, and in 43 patients, one or more permanent teeth were removed. Finally, in 9 patients, a partial excision of the odontoma was performed. Recurrence was observed in 4 cases out of 127 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Dental practitioners should be aware of the distinct clinical and radiographic features of odontoma in order to perform an appropriate and early diagnosis. Conventional radiography, such as panoramic radiograph, is often sufficient technique for a diagnosis after clinical suspicion or for an incidental diagnosis to prevent later complications, such as impaction or failure of eruption of teeth.

Imaging of odontogenic keratocysts: a pictorial review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present article was to review and depict the main radiological features of odontogenic keratocysts, thus helping the differential diagnoses from other odontogenic cysts and neoplasms.

METHODS

A review of articles published between January 2000 and October 2020 using Medline and the MeSH Term "odontogenic keratocyst" in combination with the following terms 'imaging,' 'radiology,' 'panoramic radiograph,' and 'computed tomography,' was performed.

RESULTS

Radiographically, OKCs are well-defined unilocular or multilocular radiolucencies bounded by corticated margins. Most lesions are unilocular; instead, multilocular OKCs represent about the 30% of cases, mainly involving the posterior mandible. When, particularly in large lesions, OKCs display a multilocular presentation with adjacent satellite cysts (daughter cysts) a "soap-bubble appearance" can be recognized.

CONCLUSIONS

Panoramic radiograph and CT still play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment planning of OKCs. Unfortunately, it may not be easy to differentiate OKCs from other odontogenic lesions, especially when they are small and unilocular. Histopathological findings are still necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis.

The epidemiology and management of odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs): A European multicenter study

The objective of the present study was to assess the epidemiology including demographic variables, diagnostic features, and the management of odontogenic keratocyst (OKCs) at several European departments of maxillofacial and oral surgery. This study is based on a systematic computer-assisted database that allowed the recording of data from treated OKCs. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, voluptuary habits, comorbidities, site, size, radiographic features, treatment of OKCs, length of hospital stay, complications, recurrence, management and complications of eventual recurrence. A total of 405 patients, 249 male and 156 female, with 415 OKCs (407 sporadic and 8 syndromic lesions) were included in the study: 320 lesions were found in the mandible, whereas 95 were found in the maxilla. In the mandible, the most frequently involved subsite was the angle, whereas in the maxilla it was the molar region. The most frequently performed treatment option was enucleation plus curettage/peripheral ostectomy in 204 OKCs (recurrence rate, 9%). Decompression without residual cystectomy (recurrence rate, 66%), marsupialization with residual enucleation with the use of Carnoy's solution (recurrence rate, 50%), decompression with residual cystectomy (recurrence rate, 43%), and simple enucleation (recurrence rate, 24%) were the treatment options with the highest recurrence rates. An appropriate management of odontogenic keratocysts should be individualized, taking into consideration clinical and radiological findings, as well as patients' age and comorbidities.

The epidemiology and management of ameloblastomas: A European multicenter study

The present study aimed at assessing the epidemiology including demographic variables, diagnostic features, and management of ameloblastomas at several European departments of maxillofacial and oral surgery. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, voluptuary habits, comorbidities, site, size, radiographic features, type, histopathological features, kind of treatment, length of hospital stay, complications, recurrence, management and complications of the recurrence. A total of 244 patients, 134 males and 110 females with ameloblastomas were included in the study. Mean age was 47.4 years. In all, 81% of lesions were found in the mandible, whereas 19% were found in the maxilla. Mean size of included ameloblastomas was 38.9 mm. The most frequently performed treatment option was enucleation plus curettage/peripheral ostectomy in 94 ameloblastomas, followed by segmental resection (60 patients), simple enucleation (46 patients), and marginal resection (40 patients). A recurrence (with a mean follow up of 5 years) was observed in 47 cases out of 244 ameloblastomas (19.3%). Segmental resection was associated with a low risk of recurrence (p = 0003), whereas enucleation plus curettage/peripheral ostectomy was associated with a high risk of recurrence (p = 0002). A multilocular radiographic appearance was associated with a high risk of recurrence (p < .05), as well as the benign solid/multicystic histologic type (p < .05). Within the limitations of the study it seems that the management of ameloblastomas will probably remain controversial even in the future. Balancing low surgical morbidity with a low recurrence rate is a difficult aim to reach.

The use of mandibular advancement devices in adult patients affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: our experience with "Thornton Adjustable Positioner" TAP Splint

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a sleep related disorder resulting in apneic and hypopneic episodes during sleep. The purpose of this article is to present and discuss our experience with the "Thornton Adjustable Positioner" TAP Splint in a consecutive series of patients affected by OSAS.

METHODS

The data of all patients affected by OSAS and with indication to oral appliance (OA) treatment at the Dentistry Department of the Vercelli Hospital between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019 were collected. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender; age; smoke and/or alcohol assumption; BMI; comorbidities and current pharmacological therapy; initial AHI; OSAS category; eventual performed OSAS treatment options before OA treatment; indication to OA treatment; final AHI following OA treatment; complications and side effects.

RESULTS

A total of 18 subjects (11 men, 7 women) with a mean age of 58,8 years were enrolled in this study with a mean AHI of 27,9 (range 5,8-84). Average BMI was 29. OA treatment reduced AHI in all patients (mean post treatment AHI, 5; range, 3,1-8). All patients were satisfied with the subjective improvement of OSAS symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirm the usefulness of a specific type of mandibular advancement device that can be considered as a valuable therapeutic modality in OSAS patients. Side effects are limited and they usually do not decrease the compliance of patients.

The various meanings and imperfections of words

In this reply to a letter, the Authors discuss the raised points regarding the nomenclature and management of Lymphatic Malformations / Lymphangiomas.

The use of optical scanner for the fabrication of maxillary obturator prostheses

INTRODUCTION

Maxillectomy following tumors or, more rarely, traumatic injuries may result in maxillary defects that may determine physical dysfunctions and functional impairment of speech and swallowing. The aim of our study was to present our experience in the management of post-maxillectomy patients by the use of obturator prostheses that were obtained by 3D digital casts via an intraoral scanner.

METHODS

Patients with maxillary defects following maxillary and/or palatal resection or maxillary traumatic avulsion were selected for this clinical study between 2015 and 2018. Five to 6 months after surgery, a definitive obturator prosthesis was fabricated thanks to an intraoral scanner. The following parameters of clinical outcome were considered: the absence of fluid leakage, the recovery of phonation, the recovery of swallowing, and personal satisfaction.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients (20 males, 8 females) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Most patients had a maxillary and/or palatal defect because of a malignant tumor. On the whole, 93% of patients reported a complete absence of fluid leakage between maxillary sinuses or nasal fossa and oral cavity; most patients reported a good or complete recovery of phonation and swallowing.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital technology for the fabrication of maxillary obturator prosthesis may be effective and useful. The reduced laboratory working time, the avoidance of the risk of aspiration of impression materials, and the overcome of the difficulties associated with whole tissue undercut impression are just some of the most important advantages that have been encountered thanks to this promising technology.

A single-center experience in the management of head and neck lymphangiomas

INTRODUCTION

Lymphangiomas are relatively uncommon head and neck region lymphatic malformations. Although surgery can be still considered the mainstay of treatment, sclerotherapy by OK-432 is becoming a widespread treatment option. The aim of this article is to present and discuss the management and outcomes of a series of cases of lymphangiomas.

METHODS

All patients with lymphangiomas who were treated from 2010 to 2018 were reviewed. The following data were recorded: age, gender, subtype, staging, type of treatment, outcome, and recurrence.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (9 females, 6 males) were included with 2 microcystic and 13 macrocystic lymphangiomas. Six patients underwent surgery with excision (5 with a complete success, one with a fair success), whereas the remaining 9 subjects underwent sclerotherapy by OK-432 (6 with a complete success, 3 with a fair success). No postoperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

All modes of treatment are important in properly selected patients affected by lymphangiomas. OK-432 therapy is a safe and effective option in the treatment of head and neck lymphangiomas.

Management of maxillofacial trauma in the elderly: A European multicenter study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Management of maxillofacial trauma in the geriatric population poses a great challenge due to anatomical variations and medical comorbidities. The aim of this study was to analyze the management variables, timing, and outcomes of facial fractures in elderly patients (aged 70 years or more) at several European departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was based on a systematic computer-assisted database that allowed the recording of data from all geriatric patients with facial fractures from the involved maxillofacial surgical units across Europe between 2013 and 2017.

RESULTS

A total of 1334 patients were included in the study: 665 patients underwent closed or open surgical treatment. A significant association (P < .005) was found between the presence of concomitant injuries and a prolonged time between hospital admission and treatment. The absence of indications to treatment was associated with comorbidities and an older age (P < .000005).

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly patients require specific attention and multidisciplinary collaboration in the diagnosis and sequencing of trauma treatment. A prudent attitude may be kept in selected cases, especially when severe comorbidities are associated and function is not impaired.

The Number of Platelets in Patient's Blood Influences the Mechanical and Morphological Properties of PRP-Clot and Lysophosphatidic Acid Quantity in PRP

The objectives of this study were to compare platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from patients with different concentrations of platelets and to assess the influence of these PRP preparations on human osteoblast (hOB) activity. In the literature, growth factors released by activated platelets have been considered responsible for the active role of PRP on bone regeneration but no specific role has been attributed to lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) as a possible effector of biological responses. In this study, patients were grouped into either group A (poor in platelets) or group B (rich in platelets). Clots from PRP fraction 2 (F2-clots), obtained with CaCl2 activation of PRP from the two groups, were compared macroscopically and microscopically and for their mechanical properties before testing their activity on the proliferation and migration of hOB. LPA was quantified before and after PRP fractioning and activation. The fibrin network of F2-clots from patients with a lower platelet concentration had an organized structure with large and distinct fibers while F2-clots from patients in group B revealed a similar structure to those in group A but with a slight increase in density. ELISA results showed a significantly higher plasma level of LPA in patients with a higher platelet concentration (group B) in comparison to those in group A (p < 0.05). This different concentration was evidenced in PRP but not in the clots. Depending on the number of platelets in patient's blood, a PRP-clot with higher or lower mechanical properties can be obtained. The higher level of LPA in PRP from patients richer in platelets should be considered as responsible for the higher hOB activity in bone regeneration.

Surgical management of unilateral body fractures of the edentulous atrophic mandible

INTRODUCTION

Management of body fractures in patients with edentulous atrophic mandibles represents a challenging task due to patient's age, medical comorbidities, poor bone quality, and vascularity, as well as reduced contact area between the fracture ends. The aim of the study was to assess the demographic and clinical variables, the surgical technique, and outcomes of unilateral body fractures of the edentulous atrophic mandible managed at several European departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

METHODS

This study is based on a systematic computer-assisted database that allowed the recording of data of all patients with fractures of the atrophic edentulous mandible from the involved maxillofacial surgical units across Europe between 2008 and 2017. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, comorbidities, etiology, synchronous body injuries, degree of atrophy of the mandible according to Luhr classification, type of surgical approach and fixation, length of hospitalization, and presence and type of complications.

RESULTS

A total of 43 patients were included in the study: 17 patients' mandibles were classified as class I according to Luhr, 15 as class II, and 11 as class III. All patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation by extraoral approach in 25 patients, intraoral in 15 patients, and mixed in 3 patients. A single 2.0 miniplate was used in 16 patients, followed by a single 2.4 reconstruction plate in 13 patients, by two 2.0 miniplates, and three 2.0 miniplates. Outcome was considered to be satisfying in 30 patients, with no complications. Complications were observed in 13 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of unilateral body fractures of the edentulous mandible must still be based on the type of fracture, degree of atrophy, experience of the surgeon, and patients' preference. An adequate stability can be obtained by different plating techniques that have to be appropriately tailored to every single specific patient.

The potentialities of the Anatomage Table for head and neck pathology: medical education and informed consent

INTRODUCTION

The understanding of anatomy of head and neck region and of the relative pathological conditions may be challenging for most medical students. Furthermore, patients may encounter great difficulties to understand their pathology, the proposed surgical technique, as well as the anatomy of this body district. The purpose of the present study was to present and discuss the use of the Anatomage Table for the assessment of several benign and malignant conditions of head and neck district.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hospital database of Novara University Hospital, Novara, Italy, was searched for odontogenic keratocysts, thyroglossal duct cysts, and oral squamous cell carcinomas. A case for each pathology was randomly chosen, and preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans (in DICOM files) were retrieved. The DICOM data of preoperative CT examinations were uploaded in the Anatomage Table device, and an immediate 3-D reconstruction image was obtained from the Anatomage Table. Then, a workstation was used to obtain images of the body surface, "dissection cuts," or "vascular reconstructions," by the variations of the filters.

RESULTS

The "dissection," "vascular," and "bony" images of three cases of odontogenic keratocyst, thyroglossal duct cyst, and mandibular oral squamous cell carcinoma were produced and presented.

DISCUSSION

The examination of the different slices and the application of different filters represent a promising tool both for the education of students/residents and for an improved informed consent by the patients.

The relationship between the status and position of third molars and the presence of mandibular angle and condylar fractures

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the status and position of third molars, and the presence of mandibular angle and/or condylar fractures, in a group of patients treated for mandibular fractures, thus hoping to contribute to the knowledge of potential predictors of these fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective study was designated to include all the patients who were diagnosed and treated with open reduction and internal fixation for isolated mandibular angle fractures or isolated mandibular condylar fractures between 1st of January 2012 and 31st of December 2018. The following data were collected for each included patient: gender, age, etiology, site and side of the fracture, and presence and eruption state of third molars in the fracture side.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were diagnosed with a condylar fracture, 48 with an angle fracture. No statistically significant difference was observed as for etiology and gender distribution between angle fracture and condyle fracture patients (p > 0.05). Angle fractures were statistically associated with the presence of third molars, whereas condylar fractures with the absence of third molars (p < 0.000005). The presence of completely erupted 3Ms was associated with condylar fractures (p < 0.05), and partially impacted 3Ms were associated with angle fractures (p < 0.0005).

CONCLUSIONS

Mandibular angle fractures and third molar presence are associated in patients who present with mandibular fractures, especially if the third molar is incompletely erupted. This information should be kept in consideration as for the diagnosis and management of patients with mandibular fractures.

Medical students' knowledge of medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to assess medical students' knowledge of "medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws" (MRONJ).

METHODS

A questionnaire survey was administered to all the medical students in the last two years of school of medicine at the University of Eastern Piedmont between January 2019 and March 2019. The questionnaire contained a first section regarding demographic and personal data of the student and a second section regarding the knowledge on MRONJ.

RESULTS

On the whole, 72 medical students agreed to participate to this study and filled in the questionnaire. As for indications for the use of bisphosphonates 45 students correctly answered "osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, multiple myeloma, or metastasis of some malignant tumors". Almost all students (71 out of 72) answered that a thorough examination of oral cavity and a dentist screening is needed and fundamental before starting bisphosphonate assumption. As for drugs responsible for MRONJ, only 12 students out of 72 correctly answered "bisphosphonates, denosumab, and antiangiogenic drugs".

DISCUSSION

A better level of knowledge and awareness by medical doctors and young physicians may lead, in future, to minimize incidence of MRONJ as well as to a better resolution of ONJ cases. Theoretical and practical initiatives could be promoted to improve and consolidate the knowledge of future physicians about this important issue.

Management of mandibular condylar fractures in patients with atrophic edentulous mandibles

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of condylar fractures in patients with atrophic edentulous mandibles is a peculiar field that has been little considered in the literature. The aim of the study was to assess the demographic and clinical variables as well as management and outcome of mandibular condylar fractures in edentulous patients with atrophic mandibles that were treated at several European departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

METHODS

The data of all patients with fractures of the atrophic edentulous mandible from the involved maxillofacial surgical units across Europe between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2017. Only patients that were diagnosed with condylar fractures of the edentulous atrophic mandible were included.

RESULTS

A total of 52 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study: 79% of patients reported one or more comorbidities. Thirty-four unilateral neck or subcondylar fractures, 9 bilateral neck or subcondylar condylar fractures, 7 unilateral head condylar fractures, and 2 bilateral head condylar fractures were diagnosed. No treatment was performed in 37 cases, whereas in 4 patients a closed treatment was decided, and 11 patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Outcome was considered to be satisfying in 48 patients, with no complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The golden rule still remains that the diagnosis of a subcondylar or neck fracture in an edentulous patient should constitute an indication for open reduction and internal fixation. However, an appropriate choice of management options has to be individualized on a case by case basis, also depending on the patient consent.

Epidemiology of maxillofacial trauma in the elderly: A European multicenter study

INTRODUCTION

The progressive aging of European population seems to determine a change in the epidemiology, incidence and etiology of maxillofacial fractures with an increase in the frequency of old patients sustaining craniofacial trauma. The objective of the present study was to assess the demographic variables, causes, and patterns of facial fractures in elderly population (with 70 years or more).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data from all geriatric patients (70 years or more) with facial fractures between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017, were collected. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, voluptuary habits, comorbidities, etiology, site of facial fractures, synchronous body injuries, Facial Injury Severity Score (FISS).

RESULTS

A total of 1334 patients (599 male and 735 female patients) were included in the study. Mean age was 79.3 years, and 66% of patients reported one or more comorbidities. The most frequent cause of injury was fall and zygomatic fractures were the most frequently observed injuries. Falls were associated with a low FISS value (P<.005). Concomitant injuries were observed in 27.3% of patients. Falls were associated with the absence of concomitant injuries. The ninth decade (P<.05) and a high FISS score (P<.005) were associated with concomitant body injuries too.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the role of falls in the epidemiology of facial trauma in the elderly, but also highlights the frequency of involvement of females, and the high frequency of zygomatic fractures.

Endoscopic septoplasty as a routine approach: Our experience on 647 patients

INTRODUCTION

A variety of surgical techniques of septoplasty have been described. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of endoscopic septoplasty as a routine approach both alone and during other sinonasal - skull base endoscopic procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective study of all patients admitted for endoscopic septoplasty that were performed between January 2011 and December 2017 was conducted. Patients that performed septoplasty either alone or in combination with sinus surgery or skull base surgery were included. Data regarding postoperative major complications such post-operative hemorrhage, synechiae, and septal tears or perforation were collected.

RESULTS

647 patients were included. Postoperative hemorrhage was observed in 0,3% of patients, synechiae in 5,2% of cases, and septal tears and/or perforations in 6,2% of the whole study population. An incomplete septal correction was observed in 27 patients (4,2%).

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic technique provides a better visualization allowing to observe fewer complications. It can also be considered as an excellent and effective teaching tool.

The use of teleradiology for triaging of maxillofacial trauma

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess and discuss our experience with a teleradiology technique applied to facial trauma patients referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgery hub center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All trauma patients with maxillofacial fractures from the hospitals of Vercelli, Biella, Borgosesia, Borgomanero, Verbania, and Domodossola who were referred between July 2014 and September 2018 to the hub maxillofacial center of Novara were reviewed. The following data were recorded for each patient: sex, age, referral hospital, etiology, etiology mechanisms, site of facial fractures, date of injury, indications for surgery according to teleradiology consultation, indications for surgery following clinical maxillofacial assessment, date of eventual surgery, timing of surgery from trauma, type of surgical intervention.

RESULTS

A total of 467 patients with a total of 605 fractures were triaged and managed by the Tempore telemedicine system. The most frequent cause of maxillofacial injury was fall. The most frequently observed fracture involved the zygoma. Following remote computed tomography assessment, surgical indications were suggested in 68 patients; 223 patients were not considered suitable candidates for surgery; and 176 patients needed a clinical assessment for the establishment of definitive eventual indications for surgery. Following clinical assessment, the absence and presence of surgical indications was confirmed in all 223 and 68 patients, respectively. Within the 176 patients with "possible" surgical indications, only 27 patients were referred for surgery.

CONCLUSION

Teleradiology may be helpful for an appropriate triaging of trauma patients from peripheral hospitals for the correct referral to a maxillofacial trauma hub center.

The "European zygomatic fracture" research project: The epidemiological results from a multicenter European collaboration

PURPOSE

Fractures of the zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) are common injuries that may lead to loss of an aesthetically pleasing appearance and functional impairment. The aim of this study was to analyze the demographics, causes, characteristics, and outcomes of zygomatic fractures managed at several European departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study is based on a multicenter systematic database that allowed the recording of all patients with ZMC fractures between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2017. The following data were recorded: gender, age, personal medical history, etiology, side of zygomatic fracture, classification of ZMC fracture, associated maxillofacial fractures, symptoms at diagnosis, type of performed treatment, and sequelae/complications.

RESULTS

A total of 1406 patients (1172 males, 234 females) were included in the study. Statistically significant correlations were found between assault-related ZMC fractures and the A3 class (p < .0000005) and between Infraorbital Nerve (ION) anesthesia and B class (p < .00000005).

CONCLUSION

The most frequent cause of ZMC fractures was assault, followed by falls. The most frequently involved decade of age was between 20 and 29 years. The decision and type of surgical treatment of ZMC fractures depends on several issues that need to be considered on a case by case basis.

Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) for the promotion of bone cell proliferation and tissue regeneration

OBJECTIVES

Over the past few years, studies about growth factors have been increasingly developed and the knowledge of their role in stimulating cell proliferation and differentiation used for therapeutic purposes. This study aims to compare a platelets concentrate, the plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) to a control, consisting of cellulose membranes, to evaluate in vitro the cellular adhesion and migration of human osteoblasts (hOb) and understand if the use of platelets concentrates could be an advantage in view of bone tissue regeneration.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty-seven human donors provided 27 blood samples used to make 54 samples: 27 for PRGF and 27 for the control group. PRGFs and controls were incubated for 48 h in sterility in 1 ml of culture with 10⁵ hOb and hOb in the scaffolds were then quantified.

RESULTS

In PRGF samples, hObs were more numerous than in controls. (T = 6.6964, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Human osteoblasts are driven to colonize PRGFs with a greater efficacy than negative controls, probably due to the presence of chemokines and growth factors in PRGFs.

The role of fat grafting in the treatment of posttraumatic maxillofacial deformities

Purpose The first autologous adipose tissue grafting was performed by Neuber in 1893 with an open approach. In the early 1980s, Illouz and Fournier introduced closed liposuction. In the 1990s, Coleman published a new method of atraumatic fat transplantation. Recently, immunohistochemical studies of the extracellular matrix of the lipoaspirate showed the presence of adipose-derived stem cells. The purpose of this study is to describe the role of fat grafting in the management of posttraumatic facial deformities. Methods The study population was composed of all patients who underwent facial fat grafting between March 2008 and November 2010 as a secondary reconstructive procedure after an initial unsatisfactory treatment of the skeletal fractures. We analyzed the postoperative morphological changes by comparing the grafted side of the face to the contralateral side with the aid of a software package. Results Nineteen patients were surgically treated with fat transplantation for facial asymmetry due to a pathological postoperative healing of the soft tissue. Clinical examination and software analysis showed adequate postoperative facial balance without major complications. Conclusion Fat grafting is a very powerful tool to correct posttraumatic maxillofacial deformities and to ensure a long-term follow-up. Although we have achieved excellent clinical results in our reconstructive clinical cases, we are convinced that more complex prospective studies, enriched by long-term radiological controls, are needed to fully understand the biological behavior of the transplanted fat in the posttraumatic face.