The Approach and Awareness About Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw of Medical Doctors Who Prescribe Antiresorptive Drug

Aim: As the number of patients using antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs increases day by day, the possibility of physicians encountering cases of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws increases. Awareness about medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws is a situation that should be well known by medical physicians, dentists and patients. Purpose of the study is to evaluate the approaches and awareness of medical physicians who prescribe antiresorptive and antiangiogenic drugs regarding medication-related osteonecrosis. Material and Methods: Internal medicine, orthopedics, oncology, physical therapy and rehabilitation specialists works in province were included in the research. A questionnaire consisting of 15 questions was used for the study. Results: A total of 81 physicians, (39 women, 42 men) were included in the study. Physicians' speciality were as follows; 38.3% internal medicine, 22.2% orthopedics, 21% oncology, and 18.5% physical therapy and rehabilitation. It was found that the drug most frequently prescribed by physicians was zolendranate. It was learned that 49.4% of physicians were knowledgeable about medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws. While 74.1% of the physicians stated that they would refer patients to a dentist for consultation only if a dental problem arises after the initiation of antiresorptive therapy. It was found that 67.9% of physicians referred their patients to an oral surgeon for the treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws. Conclusion: To increase awareness of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws, multidisciplinary-work by medical physicians and dentists will be extremely beneficial for patients. Educational strategies should be developed regarding medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws.