Conservative treatment of keratocyst: A follow-up study

Abstract

Objective: Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a cyst of tooth origin with an aggressive clinical behavior, including a high recurrence rate. The OKC is well known for its tendency to recur, potential aggressive behavior and defined histopathological feature. The aim of our study is to report the outcome of conservative treatment protocol for OKC. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was undertaken of all cases of OKC treated at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, KGMU, Lucknow between 2007 and 2009. A total of 35 cases of cystic lesion were identified, which were treated by one group of surgeons. On histopathological examination 17 patients out of 35 were diagnosed as OKC. We have treated all the patients of OKC with surgical curettage followed by iodoform dressing. There was only one recurrence reported, which was further treated by resection. Clinical features and various treatment modalities of OKC are discussed. Conclusions: Enucleation followed by open packing can be used as a choice of treatment with low recurrence rate for the large keratocystic lesions. The patient should have periodic radiographic and clinical examination. In the cases of the recurrence, lesion should be treated by resection and reconstruction