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JAW TUMORS AND CYSTS

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JAW TUMORS AND CYSTS

Jaw tumors and cysts may appear as swelling in the jaws, which may be asymptomatic. If present, they may enlarge and can produce an aching sensation and/or swelling in the area. In certain areas, the swelling can apply pressure to nerves that can produce numbness, tingling or other sensations. There are many different types of cysts and tumors that occur in the head and neck.

HOW ARE JAW CYSTS DIAGNOSED?

Jaw cysts grow very slowly and in the vast majority of cases patients do not have any symptoms. They are often discovered as an incidental finding when x-rays are taken to look for other things. But, if the cyst becomes infected they can become painful.

Following an examination and x-rays, the surgeon will be able to establish accurate diagnosis with CBCT scan which gives a 3-D view and aids the surgery.

HOW ARE JAW CYSTS TREATED?

The treatment for cysts is to remove them. This is done by a small incision inside the mouth and removal of part of the bonein majority of the cases. But sometimes, due to the size or location of the cyst, incision may have to made outside the mouth too. Occasionally when cysts are very large it may be possible to treat them by surgical decompression.

Following the surgery the cyst is sent to a specialist pathologist for examination under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

TREATMENT FOR A FACIAL INJURY

Depending on these factors, a decision may be made to treat the injury surgically or non-surgically.

  • Non-surgical treatment mostly consists of stabilizing the jaw bones by using wires and certain other equipment and supported with analgesics and antibiotics. This is usually done when
    • The injuries are minor
    • Patient is medically unfit for surgery
    • General anesthesia cannot be given
  • Surgical treatment involves surgical exposure of the fracture sites, which are then aligned and fixed with titanium miniplates & screws, lag screws etc.
    • Most common approach for fixing jaw fractures is from inside the mouth, thus avoiding any risk of scarring.
    • Some facial fractures though may need incisions on the face, but are placed in certain areas and skin creases, so that they are not prominent after healing.
    • This requires general anesthesia in most cases followed by stabilization of both the jaws together for a few weeks.