Minimally invasive decompression and long-term follow-up of an orthokeratinized odontogenic cyst of the mandible: A 7-year case report

Authors

• Akram Belmehdi, Faculté de médecine dentaire de Rabat, Université Mohammed V de RabatFollow
• Karima El Harti, Faculté de médecine dentaire de Rabat, Université Mohammed V de RabatFollow

Abstract

Introduction: Orthokeratinized odontogenic cyst (OOC) is a rare developmental jaw lesion with indolent behavior and low recurrence potential.

Case presentation: A 33-year-old healthy male was referred after incidental discovery of a mandibular radiolucency. Cone-beam CT revealed a well-defined unilocular lesion in close relation to the inferior alveolar canal. Aspiration confirmed its cystic nature, and a conservative decompression was performed using a rubber drain to reduce lesion size and preserve adjacent structures. Histopathologic examination identified orthokeratinized epithelium consistent with OOC. After seven months of decompression, the lesion showed marked ossification, allowing safe enucleation and peripheral curettage. Radiographic follow-ups at 19 months and seven years confirmed complete bone healing and absence of recurrence.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates that a staged, minimally invasive approach combining decompression and delayed enucleation can be effective for large OOCs, minimizing surgical morbidity and providing stable long-term results.

Recommended Citation

Belmehdi, Akram and El Harti, Karima (2026) "Minimally invasive decompression and long-term follow-up of an orthokeratinized odontogenic cyst of the mandible: A 7-year case report," International Arab Journal of Dentistry: Vol. 17: Iss. 3, Article 12.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.65314/2218-0885.1912
Available at: https://e-journals.usj.edu.lb/iajd/vol17/iss3/12