A clinicoradiologic analysis of symptomatic craniofacial fibro‐osseous lesions

OBJECTIVE: To outline the clinical and radiologic aspects of symptomatic craniofacial fibro-osseous lesions and to study the appropriate surgical management with follow-up results. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: A retrospective review of 11 patients who underwent surgical treatment during 1985 to 2004 in a tertiary health care center. RESULTS: Most (72.7%) cases were of fibrous dysplasia and were under 25 years of age (72%). Maxilla was the most common bone involved (81%). Lateral rhinotomy was the main approach for surgical resection. One patient underwent bilateral optic nerve decompression (left side therapeutic and on right side prophylactic). Six (54.5%) cases had recurrences that were managed by either radical surgery (total maxillectomy) or by further shaving off the lesion. CONCLUSION: Treatment of craniofacial fibro-osseous lesions is highly individualized. A conservative approach may not be able to treat all cases of craniofacial fibro-osseous lesions. A more radical approach that includes a craniofacial resection or a total maxillectomy may be warranted in few cases.