Management of Craniofacial Non‐Jawbone Osteoradionecrosis With Pentoxifylline, Vitamin E and Sodium Clodronate

ABSTRACT Background Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) often affects the jaws, but other craniofacial bones are also vulnerable to radiation damage. Studies exploring the role of pentoxifylline, vitamin E and sodium clodronate (PENTO/CLO) for the management of jaw osteoradionecrosis have shown promising results. Extrapolating from these findings, this service evaluation aims to report the clinical outcomes when medical management was employed in craniofacial non‐jawbone ORN where patients were either unsuitable for surgery or declined this option. Methods We identified 17 patients with non‐jaw craniofacial ORN from our local patient registry. 15 out of 17 were managed with the PENTO/CLO regimen. Results In the PENTO/CLO group, 60% ( n = 9) of patients achieved disease stability, 27% ( n = 4) experienced healing and 13% ( n = 2) showed disease progression, primarily due to persistent infection. Conclusion These findings suggest that PENTO/CLO therapy may be a promising option for managing craniofacial ORN, particularly in cases where surgery is not feasible. This study offers early insights into extending medical management to broader craniofacial applications, highlighting its potential as an alternative treatment strategy where limited options are available.