Application of sublingual gland flap in the surgical treatment of early medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of sublingual gland flap reconstruction for repairing mandibular defects resulting from early-stage medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and to provide a reference for surgical treatment approaches. The clinical records of 10 patients with early MRONJ involving mandibular defects were retrospectively analyzed. Based on MRONJ staging criteria, 4 patients were classified as stage I and 6 as stage II, with lesions located in the posterior mandibular body and angle. All patients underwent lesion removal surgery under stable general conditions, followed by immediate reconstruction using sublingual gland flaps. Postoperative follow-up over 6 to 12 months evaluated wound healing, complications (e.g., infection, recurrence), and overall surgical outcomes. All patients experienced smooth wound healing without infection, fistula, or lesion recurrence. Postoperative follow-ups revealed no significant functional impairments, and reconstruction outcomes were deemed successful. Additionally, patients reported notable improvements in quality of life. Sublingual gland flap reconstruction is a reliable and effective technique for repairing mandibular defects in patients with early-stage MRONJ, promoting favorable healing and enhanced postoperative quality of life.