Lysenko A.A., Yaremenko A.I., Ivanov V.M., Zheleznyak I.S., Vasiliev A.V., Studenikin R.A., Prokofyeva A.A. Digital approach to the treatment of large jaw cysts: A clinical study. Head and neck. Head and Neck. Russian Journal. 2025;13(4):72–83
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25792/HN.2025.13.4.72-83
Background. Maxillofacial cysts are a common condition that significantly impacts quality of life, causing bone destruction, pain, and functional impairments. Decompression using a fistula is an effective first step in the management of large jaw cysts; however, conventional decompression devices have limitations, including fixation difficulties, patient discomfort, and a higher risk of secondary infection. A promising approach involves the use of splints fabricated individually using digital planning and additive technologies; nonetheless, comparative data evaluating their effectiveness remain limited.
Aim. This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of digitally designed individually manufactured decompression devices for jaw cysts. Objective. To develop a digital concept for the treatment of large jaw cysts. Material and methods. An interventional, single-centre, prospective, selective, controlled, open, randomised clinical trial was conducted. The study included 63 patients aged 21 to 75 years with jaw cysts larger than 2 cm3 involving critical anatomical structures. Patients were randomised into two groups: experimental (individualised 3D-printed splint, n=36) and control (standard splint, n=27).
Results. Patients in the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater reduction in cyst volume (62.01% vs. 54.24%; p<0.001) and cortical plate regeneration (65.8% vs. 59%; p=0.004). Moreover, patients in the experimental group experienced no pain, discomfort, or quality-of-life deterioration (p<0.001).
Conclusion. The proposed digital concept of individualised splint fabrication demonstrates clinical efficacy, enhances cyst volume reduction, promotes cortical regeneration, and significantly improves patient comfort compared to conventional methods.
Keywords: large jaw cysts, digital dentistry, 3D printing, cyst decompression, cone-beam computed tomography, individualised splint, bone regeneration; maxillofacial surgery
Competing interests. The authors declare that they have no competing interests. Funding source. This work was supported by the Research Foundation Flanders (grant 23-21-00349).