Mandibular Osteomyelitis Surgery

Surgical management of jaw bone infection and necrosis

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 17, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Mandibular Osteomyelitis Surgery?

Mandibular osteomyelitis is a chronic infection of jaw bone with sequestrum formation, fistula, and risk of pathologic fracture. Predisposing factors include dental infection, tooth extraction, radiation, bisphosphonate exposure, and immunosuppression.

Diagnostic workup includes panoramic radiography, CT, MRI, bone scintigraphy, and culture from sequestrum or fistula tract. Differential diagnosis includes medication-related osteonecrosis (MRONJ) and osteoradionecrosis.

Treatment combines targeted intravenous antibiotics for 4 to 6 weeks with surgical sequestrectomy, decortication, saucerization, and in advanced disease segmental resection with microvascular fibula free flap reconstruction.

Symptoms

Chronic jaw pain

Facial swelling

Cutaneous or intraoral fistula

Trismus

Loose teeth

Risk Factors

Dental abscess

Tooth extraction or implant

Bisphosphonate or denosumab use

Head and neck radiotherapy

Diabetes and immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

For persistent jaw swelling and pain
For non-healing oral or skin fistula
For exposed bone in oral cavity
For trismus and weight loss
For pathologic mandibular fracture

Treatment Methods

Targeted long-term antibiotic therapy

Sequestrectomy

Decortication and saucerization

Hyperbaric oxygen for select cases

Segmental resection

Free fibula flap reconstruction

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.