Case of Drug-Induced Jaw Necrosis (MRONJ)

This case study discusses a severe complication of bisphosphonate therapy, which is commonly used to treat osteoporosis. An 82-year-old patient developed medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) as a result of bisphosphonate use, leading to skin fistulas and requiring surgical intervention. Despite targeted antibiotic therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, significant improvement was not achieved, necessitating partial jaw resection and reconstruction. Postoperative complications included a chin abscess and exposure of the reconstruction plate, leading to further interventions such as PEG placement and tracheotomy. The study concludes that bisphosphonate therapy can lead to jawbone necrosis, highlighting the importance of comprehensive dental care before starting treatment and avoiding invasive procedures during therapy.