Successful radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the mandibular nerve for intractable pain associated with medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a case report

Abstract

Background: Bisphosphonates may cause serious adverse events, including osteonecrosis of the jaw. This article describes a case of successful application of radiofrequency thermocoagulation for pain caused by osteonecrosis of the jaw. Case presentation: An 86-year-old woman who had received alendronate sodium hydrate for osteoporosis was diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the right mandible after dental treatment. Despite repeated conservative and debridement treatments, the patient could not eat due to intractable pain; accordingly, her condition was debilitated. The patient was referred to our pain management clinic for radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the right mandibular nerve. Immediately after the procedure, her pain drastically improved and she could eat; moreover, the pain has not recurred for 3 years. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that minimally invasive radiofrequency thermocoagulation may have long-term effects in patients with chronic pain caused by osteonecrosis of the jaw that is refractory to conservative treatment.