The dilemma of extensive unilocular radiolucent lesions of the jaws - value of immunohistochemistry as a diagnostic marker and prognostic Indicator.

INTRODUCTION: Large Unilocular radiolucent lesions of the jaws often present a dilemma to both, the Oral Pathologist and the Maxillofacial surgeon with regards to their accurate diagnosis as well as their most appropriate treatment modality. A precise identification as to whether the lesion is a cyst or a tumor is imperative before any treatment is instituted. Once the correct diagnosis and likely prognosis are established, a management protocol can be planned which will completely eliminate the lesion, while at the same time, ensure least possible morbidity for the patient, such as pathological jaw fractures, persisting neurological deficits, esthetic deformity, functional debility, recurrence/persistence of the lesion, etc. AIM & OBJECTIVES: To establish the value of Immunohistochemistry (IH) as a Diagnostic marker and Prognostic indicator for extensive Unilocular radiolucent lesions of the jaws. To assess its role as an adjunct to Histopathological Examination (HPE) in distinguishing Odontogenic tumours from the cysts, by identifying the former using IH Tumor Markers; and in aiding in selection of the most appropriate and effective treatment option for each of such ambiguous lesions, based on their prognosis as indicated by the expression of lH Cell Proliferation Markers. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Thirty cases of large Unilocular Radiolucent lesions of the jaws (Maxilla/Mandible) were managed over a period of three years. Histopathological examination (HPE) and Immunohistochemical (IH) analysis were carried out of the biopsy specimens in all the cases. Calretinin, an Immunohistochemical Tumor marker, was used to distinguish between Odontogenic cysts and tumours. Ki-67 and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA), Immunohistochemical Cell Proliferation markers, provided information on the aggressive potential of the lesions. On the basis of the above information, an appropriate management protocol was established for each of these different lesions. Nerve sparing enucleation and curettage was employed for the established cases of Odontogenic Cysts; Enucleation and curettage, peripheral ostectomy, followed by chemical cauterization was employed for the Unicystic Ameloblastomas and other Odontogenic tumours with a low Ki-67 and PCNA Proliferation Index (PI)/Labelling index (LI ≤ 3); Marginal resection was carried out for the tumours with a higher Labelling Index (LI >3 ≤5), and Segmental resection (including partial/complete Maxillectomy, Hemimandibulectomy with/without disarticulation) for the aggressive pathologies with high Labelling Index (LI > 5). RESULTS: Of the thirty cases of large Unilocular radiolucent lesions of the Maxilla and Mandible, thirteen were diagnosed as Dentigerous cysts, one as Dentigerous cyst showing Ameloblastomatous transformation; two as Unicystic Ameloblastomas, one as the Mural variant of Unicystic Ameloblastoma; four as Follicular Ameloblastomas, two as Plexiform Ameloblastomas; four as Acanthomatous Ameloblastomas; one as Ameloblastic Fibroma and two as Adenomatoid Odontogenic Tumours. The predictive and prognostic indication of the Immunohistochemical markers correlated well with the post treatment findings. CONCLUSION: In cases of extensive Unilocular lesions of the jaws, where ambiguity often exists in both diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan to be employed, Immunohistochemistry can serve as an invaluable tool in establishing the precise diagnosis, guiding the treatment plan, as well as indicating the likely prognosis of these lesions.

Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor of the Oral Cavity. A Great Mimicker.

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a seldom-described tumor of indefinite etiology and pathogenesis. It occurs primarily in the lungs, but has occurred in other extra-pulmonary sites. Histologically, these lesions appear as an inflammatory infiltrate within a variably myofibrotic background. Current evidence shows that inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors are neoplastic processes resulting from chromosomal translocations that frequently cause an overexpression of ALK kinase, often assessed using immunohistochemical studies. Currently, the biological behavior of oral IMT is still uncertain. This article illustrates the clinical, histological and operative features of a case of IMT of the oral cavity.

The Curious Case of a 'Maverick' Cementoblastoma!

Introduction: The Cementoblastoma is a benign ectomesenchymal odontogenic neoplasm of the jaw, arising from an exuberant production of cemental tissue continuous with the roots of teeth (usually mandibular posteriors), resulting in a calcified mass adherent with the root apices. Case Presentation: A curious case of a large Cementoblastoma, the size and shape of a ping pong ball, is presented, the first of its kind ever reported to involve the internal / medial / lingual aspect of the mandible, and presenting with unusual and deviant features. Discussion & Conclusion: The Cementoblastoma is usually associated with certain inherent and pathognomonic features, making it rather straightforward to identify and diagnose. Strikingly uncharacteristic clinical, radiographic and histologic attributes presented in this case, made this 'out of the ordinary' and 'Maverick'-like Cementoblastoma, arduous to diagnose, nevertheless, making it an interesting, informative and curious Case Study. This report has brought to light for the first time, several new facets of the Cementoblastoma.

Successful Management of Post-Traumatic Residual Orbital Roof Defects with Cosmetic Disfigurement and Functional Deficits Using Innovative Titanium Plate Orbitoplasty.

Introduction: Late presentations of post-traumatic residual orbital roof deformities ensuing from old, unaddressed orbital injuries, can be extremely challenging to manage and quite complicated to correct, owing to proximity of the brain and frontal sinus, malunion or bony fusion of the displaced, delicate orbital fracture fragments, necrosis of entrapped extraocular muscles and progressive intraorbital soft tissue fibrosis and adhesions. There exists a paucity in literature on delayed repair of displaced and comminuted orbital roof fractures and late reconstruction of the three-dimensional architecture of the orbital frame and internal orbit. Aim & Objectives: To present an unusual case of severe post-traumatic residual orbital roof deformity, resulting in longstanding aesthetic disfigurement and persisting functional deficits, and its successful management. Material & Methods: The patient had sustained orbital injuries sixteen months ago, on being punched in the face at a boxing tournament. The increased orbital volume produced by an impure blowout fracture of the left orbital roof, with comminution of the upper and lower orbital rims, had resulted in considerable cosmetic deformity, discomfort as well as functional debility, all of which were successfully and efficaciously managed by an innovative use of a Titanium Orbital Plate for orbital roof reconstruction. Discussion: Overlooked, undetected or ignored derangements in intraorbital volume and contour, can lead to severe cosmetic disfigurement in the form of enophthalmos, hypoglobus, entropion, telecanthus, palpebral fissure width narrowing and ptosis; in addition to crippling functional deficits, such as diplopia, blurred vision, levator dysfunction, restricted ocular motility and reduced visual range and acuity. Results & Conclusions: An innovative Titanium mesh orbitoplasty enabled achievement of both, the aesthetic and functional goals of reconstruction of the distorted bony orbit, with successful correction of severe functional and aesthetic deficits.

Anaesthetic and Surgical Considerations in Post COVID-19 Patients Requiring Head and Neck Surgery.

As the cases of COVID-19 have declined, the number of patients who have recovered from the dreaded disease is reporting for elective or emergency surgeries. Surgical planning in patients who have recovered from COVD-19 requires special considerations because of the morbidity and mortality associated with the infection and its devastating after-effects. There is a distinct paucity of literature on guidelines and protocols to follow in the perioperative management of these patients. With the help of experience gained over the past 2 years of the 'COVID-19 era', we have been able to establish important recommendations, guidelines and useful protocols during perioperative management of COVID-recovered patients. These protocols include important anesthetic and surgical considerations, which are both practical as well as implementable and are also in cognizance with government-laid down advisories. Although SARS-CoV-2 infection primarily affects the pulmonary and cardiac systems, it has the potential for serious and severely affect multiple organs and various other body systems in erratic and unpredictable manner. All of these factors can have significant implications that make the perioperative management of post-COVID-19 patients, difficult and challenging. Considering the far-reaching and long-lasting effects of this infection on the human body, the protocols and recommendations presented in this article can serve as a valuable guide for clinicians to effectively manage the surgical patient and help reduce perioperative complications attributable to COVID-19 infection.

Efficiency and Efficacy of Real-Time Fluoroscopic Image-Guided Percutaneous Gasserian Glycerol Rhizotomy (PGGR), for Intractable Cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia.

Aim & Objectives: To evaluate the ease, efficiency, effectiveness, and associated complications of the technique of percutaneous Gasserian glycerol rhizotomy (PGGR) under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance, for management of severe and refractory cases of primary trigeminal neuralgia, in medical compromised patients. To also assess the long-term efficacy and the necessity, if any, for repeat procedures to salvage recurrences. Study Design & Setting: In a prospective study conducted at a single institution over a period of three years, 25 cases of Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia refractory to conservative modalities of treatment including medication were managed with PGGR under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance. All the 25 patients included in this study were known surgical risks for relatively invasive treatment procedures, owing to factors such as advanced age and/or presence of co-morbidities. Material & Methods: In order to minimize the risks related to the conventional techniques of Trigeminal root rhizotomy based on cutaneous landmarks alone, and to eliminate the need for frequent repositioning of the needle/cannula, we adopted a technique of real-time fluoroscopic image-guided negotiation of a 22 gauge (0.7 mm dia), 10-cm-long spinal nerve block needle through the foramen ovale, to reach the trigeminal cistern within the Meckel's cave. The efficiency of the technique was assessed in terms of time taken, effort, and ease in performing it. Associated intra- and post-procedural complications were recorded. The immediate and long-term effectiveness of the procedure was evaluated by analysing the degree and duration of pain control achieved, time to recurrence, and the necessity for repeat procedures. Results & Conclusion: There were nil intra- or post-procedural complications encountered, and no failures associated with this procedure. Real-time fluoroscopic imaging enabled easy, quick, and successful negotiation of the nerve-block needle through the Foramen Ovale, so as to reach the Trigeminal cistern within the Meckel's cave, within 11 min on an average. An immediate and long lasting post-procedural pain relief was achieved in all the patients. During the follow-up period of 36 months, recurrence of pain was observed in six cases, the mean timing of the recurrence being 26 months or more. Five of these cases were manageable with medication alone, and only one required a repeat procedure. These results indicate that PGGR under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance is a safe, simple, time-efficient, convenient, efficacious, reliable, and minimally invasive means of treating refractory and intractable cases of trigeminal neuralgia.

Histopathological Analysis of Elongated Styloid Processes: A New Light on Etiopathogenesis of Eagle's Syndrome.

There exists paucity in recorded literature on the detailed microscopic appearance of elongated styloid processes (ESPs) in patients with Eagle's syndrome (ES). Although literature is replete with numerous conflicting and inconclusive theories, the exact cause, mechanism of origin, development and progression of styloid apparatus enlargement remains unclear and ambiguous. To carry out detailed histopathogical examination of excised specimen of ESPs in a patient with ES, with the objective to determine its precise etiomorphogenesis, and to analyse the role of possible triggering factors. Light microscopic examination was carried out of the base, mid- and apical thirds of transorally excised ESPs in a 45-year-old patient with ES. Woven bone trabeculae were found emanating from tendinous insertions of the styloid group of muscles at the mid third of the ESPs. Apical region of the ESPs showed fibro-collagenous mesenchymal tissue with numerous, haphazardly scattered trabeculae of woven bone traversing it. Presence of deeply staining reversal lines all along the length of the ESPs was suggestive of multiple micro-fractures from recurrent traumatic/traction forces, and repeated attempts at repair and ossification. It is proposed that mesenchymal structures composing the stylohyoid ligament at its attachment, and tendinous insertions of styloid muscles into the ESPs are stimulated to undergo metaplastic alterations, by repetitive stress, traction or traumatic stimuli brought to bear upon them, from muscular contractions. This osseous metaplasia of connective cells within them, followed by dystrophic bone deposition, brings about SP thickening and lengthening with their attendant and associated clinico-pathological sequelae.

Splitting and Splaying Apart of the Craniomaxillofacial Skeleton by Medially Directed Disruptive Forces of Unusual Etiologies- A Case Series.

INTRODUCTION: Extreme forces directed towards the centre of the facial region can produce devastating injuries, with disruption of the mandible, maxilla and naso-orbito-ethmoid complex, with or without frontal bone involvement. The magnitude and trajectory of the force and nature of the impacting object, dictate the degree of displacement and comminution of the craniomaxillofacial skeletal components, as well as the extent of soft tissue loss sustained. DIAGNOSIS & CHALLENGES: To elucidate various challenges faced in the management of four cases of extreme craniomaxillofacial injuries, caused by centrally directed forces of rather unusual etiologies, namely, a traversing bullet, a bamboo rod, a heavy iron cattle tethering peg and a metal electrical pole. In each of the cases, the force of impact resulted in splitting and splaying apart of the facial skeleton, with a resultant increase in its transverse width, and an ensuing severe facial deformity and functional debility. RATIONALE & INTERVENTIONS: A ߢBottom-up, Outside-in' surgical sequence was employed to carry out reduction, fixation and reconstruction of the deranged maxillofacial skeletal architecture and restoration of the soft tissue morphology. OUTCOMES & LESSONS: The transverse dimensions of the flared out facial frames could be re-established and restored to their pre-trauma status successfully in all the cases, thereby achieving excellent esthetic and functional outcomes. Despite the extensive and serious nature of the injuries sustained, gross residual craniofacial defects, deformities and asymmetries, as well as debilitating functional deficits, could be effectively and successfully averted.

A Case of Extreme Skeletal Class III Malocclusion Beyond the Envelope of Discrepancy, Managed Effectively by a Modified Ortho-Surgical Protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Correction of a severe anteroposterior skeletal discrepancy, as described in this case of extreme skeletal class III malocclusion, can be quite challenging and fraught with difficulties. Conventional, single-stage bi-jaw orthognathic surgery with pre-and post-surgical orthodontics is associated with drawbacks such as the risk of relapse and an unsatisfactory overall long-term outcome, with persisting occlusal discrepancies and skeletal abnormalities, especially when the magnitude of skeletal correction required is large. Excessive mandibular setback can restrict tongue space, cause narrowing of posterior airway and pharyngeal space, and be prone to relapse from the forward pterygomasseteric muscle pull, while large maxillary advancements are often accompanied by wound dehiscence and bone exposure at the site of pterygomaxillary disjunction, delayed union or malunion at the osteotomy and disjunction sites, and risk of relapse due to backward palatopharyngeal muscle pull. In addition, bi-jaw surgeries invariably involve an appreciable blood loss and a prolonged operating time with its attendant anaesthetic risks such as respiratory insufficiency. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To develop an orthosurgical protocol wherein excessive skeletal discrepancy can be successfully managed, achieving the desired magnitude of correction, with little or no relapse. To assess its efficacy and superiority over the hitherto-employed single-stage bi-jaw procedures in the management of severe skeletal discrepancies. MATERIALS AND METHOD: A two-staged, shorter 'single-jaw at a time' operative procedure with an intervening period of three months between the two surgical phases was employed. RESULTS: Drawbacks of conventional orthognathic surgery may be obviated by employing a two-staged protocol of bi-jaw surgeries allowing a minimum time period of 3 months to elapse between them. This period of time intervening between the maxillary advancement and mandibular setback allows the oral and maxillofacial musculature to adapt itself to the new jaw position following the first surgery, thus creating a better and more stable environment for the succeeding one, thereby reducing the chances of relapse thereafter, and producing more effective and stable long-term results. Moreover, the intervening time period also allows for observation of the repositioned jaw and arch relations achieved, and scrutiny for any positional changes in this post-surgical phase, which thereby allows modifications in the planned surgery of the next jaw, so as to achieve the most ideal final outcome following the second jaw surgery. A shorter operating time, reduced operator fatigue and less blood loss are other obvious advantages over the conventional bi-jaw procedures. CONCLUSION: An effective and stable correction of the extreme class III skeletal deformity and malocclusion was achieved, with a dramatic enhancement of facial balance, symmetry and proportion in this patient, following a modified orthosurgical management protocol. The staged protocol of 'maxilla first and mandible after' orthognathic surgery with conventional pre- and post-surgical orthodontics helped in pushing the envelope of skeletal discrepancy correctable by orthognathic surgery, thereby achieving large quantum of jaw movements, with ideal and stable functional as well as aesthetic results. This is suggestive of its efficacy and superiority over the hitherto-employed single stage bi-jaw procedures in the management of severe skeletal discrepancies.

A case of extreme skeletal class III Malocclusion beyond the envelope of discrepancy, managed effectively by a modified ortho-surgical protocol.

Correction of severe anteroposterior skeletal discrepancy, as described in this case of Extreme Skeletal Class III Malocclusion, can be challenging and fraught with difficulties. Conventional, single stage Bi-jaw Orthognathic surgery, with pre-and post-surgical orthodontics is associated with drawbacks such as risk of relapse and an unsatisfactory outcome, with persisting occlusal discrepancies and skeletal abnormalities, especially when the magnitude of skeletal correction is large. Excessive mandibular setback restricts tongue space, narrows the posterior airway and pharyngeal spaces, and is prone to relapse from the forward pterygomasseteric pull; while large maxillary advancements are accompanied by wound dehiscence, bone exposure and delayed union at the site of pterygomaxillary disjunction, and risk of relapse due to backward palatopharyngeal pull. Bi-jaw surgeries invariably involve considerable blood loss and prolonged operating time with its attendant anaesthetic risks. These drawbacks may be obviated by employing a two staged protocol of Bi-jaw surgeries allowing a minimum time period of 3 months to elapse between them, which allows the oral and maxillofacial musculature to adapt itself to the new jaw position following the first surgery, thus creating a better and more stable environment for the succeeding one. This reduces the chance of relapse thereafter, and produces more effective and stable long term results. The intervening time period also allows for observation of the repositioned jaw and arch relations achieved, and scrutiny for any positional changes in this post-surgical phase, which thereby allows modifications in the planned surgery of the next jaw, thereby achieving the most ideal final outcome.

Efficacy and Versatility of Intraoral Monoplanar Distractors in the Correction of Extreme Mandibular Deformities and Severe Facial Asymmetries - A Retrospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Distraction osteogenesis, has emerged as a revolutionary concept and an effective means to treat extensive craniomaxillofacial defects and malformations. In cases of mandibular distraction for patients with extreme acquired mandibular deformities, there is so far, no recorded literature on precise quantification and scientific estimation of the percentage of the efficacy of intraoral monoplanar distractors, for an objective evaluation of their effectiveness. The objective was to study the efficacy of intraoral mandibular monoplanar distractors in the correction of severe acquired mandibular deformities and gross facial asymmetries. To objectively evaluate their effectiveness by calculating the percentage of distraction achieved as against that aimed for, and to evaluate early and late complications encountered with their use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five patients in the age group of 10-22 years, with extreme mandibular deformity and gross facial asymmetry secondary to longstanding temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis, were treated. Four patients had unilateral and one patient had bilateral TMJ ankylosis, with varying degrees of acquired mandibular hypoplasia, retrogenia, retrognathia, and asymmetry. They were managed by unilateral (3 patients) and bilateral (2 patients) mandibular distraction. RESULTS: Maximum horizontal corpus and vertical Ramal distraction achieved was 19 mm and 17.6 mm, respectively. The percentage of the efficacy of the intraoral monoplanar distractors used in this study ranged from 65.38% to 109.09%. Severe mandibular deformities and facial asymmetries were successfully corrected in all five patients, with no major early or late complications encountered in any of them. Results achieved were stable with nil incidence of relapse. DISCUSSION: Estimation of percentage of the efficacy of distraction achieved, helped in objectively evaluating the effectiveness of the intraoral mandibular distractors. A low complication rate and good esthetic and functional outcomes achieved in all the patients demonstrated the reliability of this treatment modality in the management of extreme mandibular deformities and severe facial asymmetries.

A Rare Fracture Pattern with Extensive Disruption of the Zygomatico-Orbito-Maxillary Complex.

A case of an unusually oriented fracture pattern and significant disruption of the right Zygomatico-orbito-maxillary complex, with severe comminution and gross displacement of its skeletal components, is described. Wide surgical access to all the fracture sites was provided by a combination of hemicoronal and intraoral surgical approaches. This enabled successful reduction, precise reapproximation, and stable fixation of the multiple displaced fracture fragments. An excellent restoration of the skeletal morphology and orbital volume to their original, preinjury status was achieved, obviating the development of any residual facial deformity, functional deficit or ocular complications.

Cranial Vault Defects and Deformities Resulting from Combat-Related Gunshot, Blast and Splinter Injuries: How Best to Deal with Them.

Combat-related gunshot and blast injuries of the craniomaxillofacial region present a unique and challenging situation for the maxillofacial and reconstructive surgeon. The devastating cosmetic deformities and severe functional debility ensuing as a result of extensive hard and soft tissue disruption caused by these highly complex injuries, can have disastrous consequences, unless managed in a swift and efficient manner, by a multidisciplinary team approach. Large calvarial defects and deformities are frequent sequelae of these injuries and could result from shattering of the cranial vault by the force of an exploding shell, mine or improvised explosive device, or due to penetration of the skull by the projectile, such as a bullet, flying splinters or shrapnel. It could also result from the decompressive craniectomy carried out in these patients as a neurosurgical procedure to deal with the traumatic brain injury sustained. Management of such injuries is significantly different from that of other craniomaxillofacial injuries, owing to the quantum and severity of hard and soft tissue destruction encountered in the former and also the need to deal with aspects such as splinters from the projectile deeply embedded within vital structures such as the delicate brain tissue and meninges. Further, restoration of the lost structural and functional integrity of the cranial vault using the most suitable cranioplasty material, is imperative to provide protection to the vulnerable and vital cranial contents. Correction of the cranial deformity is also essential from an esthetic and psychosocial standpoint, to restore the morale of the patient. The present study elaborates the immediate/primary management as well as the secondary/definitive management of blast and ballistic head injury patients. Comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation of these patients, including reconstruction of extensive calvarial defects and deformities, resulting either directly or indirectly from combat injuries, have been described in detail. This study also aims to analyze, review and reassess the currently accepted management perspectives and treatment protocols of combat-related cranial injuries and proposes a useful algorithm to best manage them.

Split Calvarial Grafting for Closure of Large Cranial Defects: The Ideal Option?

Among the various cranioplasty options for reconstruction of large post-craniectomy defects, split calvarial grafting offers numerous significant advantages such as the provision of viable autogenous bone graft material comprising of living, immunocompatible bony cells that integrate fully with the skull bone bordering the cranial defect. Its potential for revascularization and subsequent integration and consolidation allows its successful use even in previously infected or otherwise compromised recipient sites. Its excellent contour match at the recipient site and low cost as compared to various alloplastic implant materials often makes it preferable to the latter. Surgeon's skill, dexterity, expertise and experience are important factors to be considered in this highly technique-sensitive procedure.

Management of Central Giant Cell Granulomas of the Jaws: An Unusual Case Report with Critical Appraisal of Existing Literature.

Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) is an uncommon, benign but aggressive osteolytic neoplasm of the craniomaxillofacial region, histologically characterized by an abundance of evenly distributed multinucleated giant cells within a sea of spindle-shaped mesenchymal stromal cells, scattered throughout the fibrovascular connective tissue stroma containing areas of hemorrhage. A rapid diagnostic assessment, together with an adequate histopathologic verification, is essential to improve the management and the prognosis of this locally destructive lesion. A rare case of a large destructive CGCG involving the entire right angle of mandible, causing extensive bony resorption, and buccal, medial as well as inferior border cortical expansion with multiple perforations, in a young child is presented. It was treated successfully by enucleation and aggressive curettage followed by peripheral ostectomy preserving the continuity of the mandible. Two adjunctive measures were employed; first, chemical cauterization of the residual bony walls to prevent possible recurrence, for which this tumor is notorious, and second, placement of fresh autologous platelet-rich fibrin within the bony defect to hasten bone fill and reossification, thus obviating the need for a bone graft.

Frontal Bone Fractures and Frontal Sinus Injuries: Treatment Paradigms.

BACKGROUND: Timely, expeditious and appropriate management of Frontal bone fractures and associated Frontal Sinus (FS) injuries are both crucial as well as challenging. Treatment options vary considerably, depending upon the nature, extent and severity of these injuries as well as operator skill, expertise and experience. In cases of posterior table fractures of the Frontal Sinus, literature reports have in general, propounded direct visualization and exploration of the sinus via a bifrontal craniotomy, followed by sinus cranialization. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To review the standard protocols of management of Frontal bone fractures and Frontal Sinus injuries. To assess the efficacy of a more conservative approach in the management of outer and inner table fractures of the FS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Contemporary and evolving management protocols and changing treatment paradigms of different types and severities of frontal bone fractures and frontal sinus injuries, have been presented in this case series. A useful Treatment Algorithm has been proposed to efficiently and effectively manage these injuries. RESULTS: In the present case series, effective and satisfactory results could be achieved in cases of significantly displaced inner and outer table fractures of the Frontal sinus by a more conservative protocol comprising of open reduction and internal fixation carried out via the existing scar of injury, without having to resort to the more radical intracranial approach and sinus cranialization. Nevertheless, presence of complicating factors such as cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, evidence of meningitis or the development of encephalomeningocoeles necessitated the standard protocol of sinus exploration and its cranialization or obliteration. CONCLUSION: Management protocols of Frontal Sinus injuries vary, based on aspects such as the timing of presentation and intervention, degree of injury sustained, concomitant associated Craniomaxillofacial injuries present, presence of complicating factors or Secondary/Residual deformities & Functional debility, and need to be decided upon on a case to case basis.

Histological Diversity, Diagnostic Challenges, and Surgical Treatment Strategies of Fibrous Dysplasia of Upper and Mid-Thirds of the Craniomaxillofacial Complex.

BACKGROUND: Owing to the overlapping clinical, radiographic and histopathological features among the diverse group of Fibro-osseous lesions, a precise and definitive diagnosis of Fibrous Dysplasia (FD) can be quite challenging. Moreover, FD itself may manifest with widely varying clinical presentations, radiographic appearances and histological pictures, depending upon the maturity of the lesion, and the relative quantum of its 'fibrous' and 'osseous components'. Prompt and accurate diagnosis of Fibrous Dysplasia (FD) of the Craniomaxillofacial region is particularly important, as the condition is capable of causing considerable facial asymmetry or deformity leading even to marked disfigurement, which can have a profound psychosocial impact on the patient. Involvement of Maxillofacial bones by aggressive forms of FD, can produce serious functional debility as well, by compromising airway, breathing, vision, hearing, occlusion, mastication and mouth opening. Calvarial bone involvement can produce cranial asymmetry, and cranial base involvement can lead to persistent headaches, facial pain, numbness, and other neurological deficits owing to compression of cranial nerves. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the importance of early and precise diagnosis, with prompt surgical management of these lesions, for a successful overall esthetic and functional outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A Case series of 15 patients, showcasing the principal variants of FD affecting the Craniomaxillofacial complex, namely, the Monostotic and Craniofacial forms have been described. Diversity in their Clinical, Radiographic and Histopathological presentations; their management modalities elucidating the various surgical approaches employed to access and excise these bone pathologies, have been provided along with a review of existing literature. RESULTS: Various surgical approaches may be employed to access the lesions, depending upon their location, extent and involvement. Treatment protocols range from complete surgical excision to surgical shaving and recontouring, and must be decided upon on a case to case basis, with the aim to achieve the best possible esthetic and functional outcome with the least postoperative morbidity. CONCLUSION: Correlation of HPE with history, clinical features, biological behaviour, radiographic and CT appearance, laboratory findings, and intra-operative findings is imperative, so that they can be distinguished from other bony lesions and an appropriate, ideal and effective treatment modality can be instituted in time, so as to achieve the most favourable esthetic and functional outcome.

Rationale, Relevance, and Efficacy of "Surgery First, Orthodontics Later" Approach in the Management of Cases of Severe Malocclusion with Skeletal Discrepancy.

A good esthetic outcome and optimal functional occlusion is the goal of management of any dentofacial anomaly. Conventional orthognathic surgery, as commonly practiced, entails a rather long-drawn management protocol comprising a triphasic treatment approach, with the surgical procedure being both preceded and followed by pre- and post-surgical orthodontics, respectively. This has numerous well-known drawbacks such as an uncertain and unpredictable patient compliance and poor motivation due to the inevitably long duration of orthodontic therapy; a transient and temporary worsening of the facial appearance brought about by presurgical orthodontic decompensation of occlusal relationships; and the inevitably prolonged time frame involved in ultimately achieving the desired esthetic and functional results. Further, unforeseen interruptions along the course of the long treatment period can result in unfavorable and even disastrous outcomes. The newer concept and technique of "Surgery First Orthodontics After" (SFOA) approach or "surgery-first approach" (SFA) entails first performing orthognathic surgery, thereafter following it up and finishing the case with postsurgical orthodontic settling and correction of the occlusion. It has two very distinct advantages over the erstwhile approach, first, an immediate and early correction of the facial deformity resulting in a remarkable improvement in facial appearance, which in most cases was what had prompted the patient to seek treatment for, in the first place. The patient, encouraged and motivated by the obvious and appreciable esthetic results, complies willingly and well with the subsequent postsurgical orthodontic treatment, even if it is lengthy or inconvenient, thus ensuring an optimal ultimate occlusion with complete functional rehabilitation as well. The second advantage of SFA is a markedly reduced overall treatment time, which is greatly appreciated by the patients. This article presents three cases of severe malocclusion with associated skeletal discrepancies, treated expeditiously and effectively using the SFA protocol. The overviews of SFA, including its rationale and relevance, indications, general and specific guidelines, different protocol variations, clinical outcome and success rate, as well as possible complications and potential problems encountered with this novel treatment protocol are also discussed.

Management of the Frontoethmoidal Encephalomeningocele.

INTRODUCTION: The Frontoethmoidal encephalomeningocele (FEEM) is a congenital neural tube anomaly, with herniation of intracranial material such as the brain and leptomeninges through a defect of the dura and anterior skull base at the junction of the frontal and ethmoidal bones. It may result not only in neural defects, sensorimotor deficits, neurological morbidities, visual impairment, impaired nasal function, and a potential risk of intracranial infection, but also in significant craniofacial disfigurement with complex deformities in the frontal, orbital, and nasal regions. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The standard two-staged surgical protocol comprises of the first stage performed by a neurosurgeon, which aims at correcting the neural defect by a formal craniotomy; then the second stage performed by a craniomaxillofacial or plastic and reconstructive surgeon, to correct craniofacial hard and soft tissue deformities. The case discussed was managed using a modified intracranial-transcranial single stage approach, achieving both the desired objectives. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: This protocol elucidates the importance and value of teamwork between the Neurosurgeon and Craniomaxillofacial surgeon, in comprehensively and efficiently managing small to moderately sized FEEMs, assuring their complete elimination, satisfactory defect closure, effective functional treatment as well as esthetic correction and reconstruction of the attendant craniofacial deformities by means of a single-stage definitive surgical approach.

Chronic Recurrent Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation: A Comparison of Various Surgical Treatment Options, and Demonstration of the Versatility and Efficacy of the Dautrey's Procedure.

INTRODUCTION: There has been a changing trend of treating temporomandibular joint subluxation, which range from conservative non-surgical measures to various soft and hard tissue surgical procedures aimed at either augmenting or restricting the condylar path. AIM: This study was aimed at comparing the efficacy of three major surgical treatment modalities: condylar obstruction creation, obstruction removal and anti-translatory procedures. Also, the location, anatomy and morphology of the TMJs pre- and post-surgery were evaluated and compared using radiographs, sagittal and 3-D Computed Tomographic scans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 6-year study was carried out on seventy-five patients of various age groups. Twenty-five were operated by the Dautrey's procedure, 25 by articular eminectomy alone and the remaining 25 by eminectomy followed by meniscal plication and tethering. The distribution of patients in the three groups was random. Effectiveness of the surgical procedure and incidence of complications including recurrence were carefully compiled and compared between the three groups. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Dautrey's procedure yielded more gratifying and stable results, leading to a successful and permanent correction of chronic recurrent dislocation of the TMJs, with practically nil complications, thus demonstrating it to be an extremely safe, effective and versatile technique, making the joints function normally and securing sufficient volume of mouth opening. There was observed an average increase in articular tubercle height by 3.65 mm and a mean anterior shift of its lowest point by 4.5 mm following the Dautrey's procedure, which were statistically significant findings. The upper age limit to carry out the Dautrey's procedure can be safely taken up to 45 years.