Bisphosphonates and avascular necrosis of the mandible: case report and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Avascular necrosis of the mandible or maxilla is being recognized with increasing frequency in patients who are being treated with bisphosphonates for metastatic cancers.


RESULTS
A patient who was treated for avascular necrosis following treatment with bisphosphonates for multiple myeloma is presented.


CONCLUSIONS
Prophylactic and preventative measures should be instituted prior to commencing treatment with bisphosphonates to minimize the risk of developing avascular necrosis.
Murray
Dylan J
DJ
Division of Plastic Surgery, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Vesely
Martin J J
MJ
Novak
Christine B
CB
Irish
Jonathan
J
Crump
Michael
M
Neligan
Peter C
PC
D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004164:Diphosphonates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008336:Mandibular Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy; D010020:Osteonecrosis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000601:surgery; D000077268:Pamidronate; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D013524:Surgical Flaps
D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents; D004164:Diphosphonates; D000077268:Pamidronate