Surgical management of primary chronic osteomyelitis: a long-term retrospective analysis.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study is to present an extensive review of primary chronic osteomyelitis (PCO) and present long-term treatment results in 4 patients.


METHODS
This is a retrospective case study analysis of 4 patients with documented PCO who were treated by a standardized surgical technique by 1 surgeon and were followed clinically and radiographically for a mean of 22 years.


RESULTS
Based on follow-up visits to date and correspondence to the surgeon who treated these patients, there have been no radiographic recurrences of PCO in 4 patients followed 5, 23, 26, and 34 years, respectively. Complete symptomatic relief has been achieved in 3 of 4 patients; the fourth patient exhibits persistent recurrent myofascial pain.


CONCLUSIONS
The surgical technique discussed herein provides a viable alternative in the range of potential treatment options for this uncommon disease of unknown etiology.
Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA. cbevin@oral-facialsurgery.com
Christopher R
CR
Bevin
Carrie Y
CY
Inwards
Eugene E
EE
Keller
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008336:Mandibular Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000209:etiology; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D014081:Tooth Extraction