Conservative Management of Mural Subtype Unicystic Ameloblastoma in Young Patient: A Case Report with One Year of Follow Up

Introduction: Ameloblastoma is a benign tumor primarily found in the jawbone. Unicystic ameloblastoma comprises four distinct types, first categorized in 1977. The primary mode of treatment is surgical intervention. This case report details the surgical management of a 13-year-old boy diagnosed with unicystic ameloblastoma and an impacted left mandibular third molar during the COVID-19 pandemic. Case Report: A 13-year-old boy was referred to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department at Hacettepe University due to a radiolucent lesion surrounding an impacted mandibular third molar, which led to facial asymmetry. The treatment plan included the extraction of the second molar, a biopsy, and marsupialization. During the one-year follow-up, no recurrence was noted. Conclusion: Marsupialization, which involves creating an open pocket by suturing the edges of a lesion to the oral cavity or sinuses for fluid drainage, is a conservative treatment approach particularly suitable for young patients. This method preserves the growth potential of the bone, improves aesthetic outcomes, and protects vital structures. In this case, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, conservative treatment under local anesthesia was preferred, with enucleation performed after marsupialization. Such approaches address clinical needs effectively and support patients' psychological well-being during challenging periods like pandemics.