Odontogenic cysts related to pulpotomized deciduous molars - Clinical features and treatment outcome

Objective. The purpose of this study was to assess the morbidity and outcom es associated with large cysts that developed in conjunction with pulpotomi zed deciduous molars. Study design. This retrospective study was based on the files of 18 patient s who were referred to 2 oral surgery departments during a 10-year period ( 1986-1996). The inclusion criteria were large cyst lesions (>1 cm in diamet er) and complete documentation. Data regarding symptoms at presentation, hi stologic and radiologic features, treatment modalities, morbidity, and outc omes were analyzed. Results. An equal gender distribution of patients was found, as were a late r development in males (12 +/- 2 years in boys, 9 +/- 2 years in girls) and a 5:1 ratio favoring the mandible over the maxilla. Treatment included enu cleation (12 patients) and marsupialization (6 patients). The morbidity was high and included loss of permanent teeth (3 patients), extensive loss of alveolar bone (3 patients), use of flaps (2 patients), and adjuvant orthodo ntic treatment (9 patients). Conclusion. Failure of early detection and treatment of cysts that develop in conjunction with pulpotomized deciduous molars can cause considerable mo rbidity. Therefore, periodic clinical and radiologic follow-up until the er uption of succedaneous teeth is recommended.