Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) in West Palm Beach, FL

Name: Osteoradionecrosis (ORN)
Brand: AQ Surgery
Rating: 5 (12 reviews)

Osteoradionecrosis is a serious complication that can arise in patients undergoing radiation treatment for head and neck cancers. It involves the death of bone tissue due to radiation exposure.

Quality ORN Surgery in West Palm Beach

Radiation damages the small blood vessels within the bone, reducing blood flow and decreasing the bone's ability to repair itself. Over time, the bone may become weak, brittle, and prone to infection or breakdown. If not properly treated, osteoradionecrosis can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life. With her extensive training in oral and maxillofacial surgery, head and neck oncology, and microvascular reconstruction, Dr. Anastasiya Quimby is uniquely qualified to address the complexities of this condition, offering innovative treatments that not only manage the disease but also aim to restore function and help patients thrive post-treatment.

woman touching her cheek showing that her mouth is in pain

What Is Osteoradionecrosis?

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) occurs when bone tissue dies due to reduced blood supply after radiation therapy. Radiation therapy, often used to treat cancers of the head and neck, can damage both healthy and cancerous tissues. In some cases, the radiation affects the blood vessels that supply the bone, particularly in the jaw, leading to tissue death and necrosis. This condition most commonly affects the mandible (lower jaw) but can also occur in other bones.

Symptoms of Osteoradionecrosis

The symptoms of osteoradionecrosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include the following:

Pain in the affected area of the jaw or other bones
Swelling or redness around the jaw
Exposure of bone through the gums
Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus)
Jaw stiffness
Persistent infections or sores in the mouth that don’t heal
Tooth loss or loosening

If left untreated, ORN can lead to more severe complications, including significant loss of jaw function, chronic pain, and a higher risk of infection.

Diagnosis of Osteoradionecrosis

Dr. Quimby conducts a thorough clinical examination, detailed imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, and, in some cases, a biopsy to confirm the extent of the bone damage. She uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools at AQ Surgery to assess the severity of ORN and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

Osteoradionecrosis Surgery in West Palm Beach

Surgical interventions are often required to remove dead bone tissue and reconstruct the affected area. Dr. Quimby is a specialist in microvascular surgery, which involves transferring healthy tissue from another part of the body, along with its blood vessels, to the affected area. This approach ensures patients can maintain essential functions such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing.

Comprehensive jaw reconstruction may be necessary for patients with severe osteoradionecrosis, which requires the removal of significant portions of the jawbone. Dr. Quimby uses custom virtual surgery planning and bone grafting to replace the damaged bone in the jaw. This helps restore the jaw's structure and supports future dental implants if necessary.

Regenerative Approaches for Healing

In addition to surgical interventions, regenerative techniques are often used to enhance healing and improve outcomes for patients with osteoradionecrosis.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)

PRF is a regenerative therapy that uses the patient’s own blood to promote healing. PRF contains growth factors that accelerate tissue regeneration and improve recovery after surgery. This therapy can especially benefit patients undergoing bone grafting or other reconstructive procedures after ORN surgery in West Palm Beach.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells are another regenerative treatment used for ORN. These cells have the ability to differentiate into bone and other tissues, promoting healing and reducing the risk of complications. Dr. Quimby uses stem cell therapy to enhance recovery and improve the long-term outcomes of reconstructive surgery.

Why Choose AQ Surgery?

Dr. Anastasiya Quimby is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with specialized fellowship training in head and neck oncology and microvascular reconstruction. This makes her uniquely equipped to treat complex cases of osteoradionecrosis. Dr. Quimby’s all-in-one approach allows her to handle intricate cases, such as bone damage from radiation, jaw reconstruction, and tissue restoration, minimizing the need for multiple surgeries and consultations with various specialists.

With multi-disciplinary training in dental, medical, ENT, oncology, and plastic surgery, Dr. Quimby creates personalized, holistic treatment plans. This integrated approach addresses the immediate complications of ORN and promotes faster recovery and enhanced long-term outcomes. Dr. Quimby’s practice is built on accurate diagnosis, individualized care, and a commitment to improving patients’ quality of life. By focusing on comprehensive jaw and facial reconstruction, Dr. Quimby ensures ORN patients receive world-class care tailored to their unique medical needs, restoring appearance and functionality.

Experience Compassionate Care at AQ Surgery

Osteoradionecrosis is a challenging condition that requires specialized care to manage effectively. AQ Surgery offers a range of advanced treatment options, from conservative management to microvascular reconstruction, to help patients with ORN recover and regain their quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoradionecrosis, contact AQ Surgery today to schedule a consultation and learn more about osteoradionecrosis surgery in West Palm Beach.