Non-Invasive Management of Osteoradionecrosis With Intra- and Extraoral Fistulas Using Combined Photodynamic and Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Case Report.

Abstract

Aims: Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a severe late complication of head and neck radiotherapy, often refractory to conventional treatment. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) have shown regenerative, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. This report aims to describe the non-invasive management of extensive mandibular ORN with intra- and extraoral fistulas using a combined PBMT-PDT protocol.

Case report: A 72-year-old man previously treated with chemoradiation for laryngeal carcinoma developed chronic mandibular ORN after third molar extraction, complicated by a pathologic fracture, persistent suppuration, and failure of surgery, hyperbaric oxygen, antibiotics, and curettage. Clinical evaluation revealed intra- and extraoral suppurative fistulas and radiographic bone sequestration. A conservative regimen was initiated, consisting of weekly PBMT and PDT sessions following chlorhexidine irrigation. Over approximately one year (50 sessions), the patient reported progressive pain relief and reduced analgesic use. Complete closure of both fistulas was achieved, with recovery of soft-tissue sensitivity and radiographic resolution of sequestration. No adverse effects occurred, and the planned surgical debridement was canceled.

Conclusion: Combined PBMT and PDT promoted complete resolution of extensive, refractory mandibular ORN using a fully non-invasive approach. This case highlights the synergistic potential of dual phototherapy as a safe and effective alternative when surgery is contraindicated or declined. Further studies are warranted to clarify underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment parameters.