CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF PHOTOBIOMODULATION IN THE PREVENTION AND ADJUVANT THERAPY OF MEDICATION-RELATED OSTEONECROSIS OF THE JAW: A 10-YEARS RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract Aim This study aimed to evaluate the preventive and therapeutic efficacy of PBM therapy in the management of MRONJ, analyzing its role as a non-invasive and adjuvant modality alongside medical and surgical approaches. Introduction MRONJ is a serious adverse effect of antiresorptive and anti-angiogenic drugs, predominantly affecting maxillofacial bones. Its risk depends on drug type, dose, and duration, being highest with intravenous bisphosphonates. PBM, by stimulating mitochondrial activity and angiogenesis, promotes healing and reduces inflammation, providing preventive and therapeutic advantages. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients treated between 2014 and 2024. 72 patients at risk for MRONJ (Group A, n=72) who underwent PBM therapy in conjunction with dental extractions were evaluated for preventive outcomes. Additional cohorts of MRONJ-diagnosed patients were analyzed to assess PBM’s therapeutic and adjuvant effects in combination with medical and surgical therapies (Group B, n=73) . Clinical outcomes were evaluated at 6-month follow-ups, assessing complete, partial, or absent healing. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests with significance set at p