Type of publication:
Conference abstract

Author(s):
*Otukoya R.; *Mihalache G.; *Castling B.

Citation:
British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery; Dec 2017; vol. 55 (no. 10)

Abstract:
Introduction: Dental suction tubing is widely available in OMFS Units. It has a metal radiopaque marker and can easily be cut to the desired length with scissors. It is relatively inexpensive and has a reinforced lumen that makes easy access for saline irrigation.We have used this tubing now in 3 large odontogenic cysts of the jaws and present this as an aid to effective and simple cyst decompression. Materials/Methods: Large odontogenic cysts present a surgical challenge in terms of recurrence prevention, protection of the inferior dental nerve and teeth and avoidance of mandibular fracture. We have effectively managed 3 such cases with the insertion of a segment of dental suction tubing as a decompression grommet at the same time as local anaesthetic biopsy of the cyst lining. The tube rigidity maintains patency and it is robust enough to allow easy self-irrigation by the patient. The position of the tubing can be assessed radiographically. Results: We allowed decompression over a 3 to 6 month period prior to formal cyst enucleation. There were no complications or failures of the tube patency. The benefits of decompression were clear as a demonstrable bony infilling and reduction in cyst size. Additionally the cyst lining became markedly thicker and easier to enucleate intact, an advantage in odontogenic kearatocysts. Conclusions:We would like to commend this dental suction tube grommet technique as an effective way to manage large odontogenic cysts of the jaws.