Efficacy of Gas Combination Cryotherapy in the Management of Odontogenic Keratocyst of the Maxilla and Mandible: A Pilot Study.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate outcome of management of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) using gas combination cryotherapy (GCC). GCC is a treatment modality where cyst enucleation is followed by applying an adjuvant agent, a spray containing propane, butane and isobutene gas onto the bony bed. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective interventional study which included patients with radiographic and histopathologic evidence of OKC. All patients underwent enucleation of the cysts followed by spraying of the bony cavity with "ENDOFROST ™"(commercially available agent for GCC). Patients were periodically reviewed and the presence of wound dehiscence, infection and neurosensory deficit was noted. After 15 months, a CBCT was taken to assess the amount of bone formation, the presence of any pathologic fracture or recurrence. Comparison of the preoperative and the postoperative size of the defect was also assessed. Results: A total of 10 patients were included in the study of which only 2 presented with neurosensory deficit in the post-op period. One patient of the two patients recovered completely within 12 months, while the other recovered within 15 months. There was no evidence of any patient developing infection, wound dehiscence, recurrence or pathologic fracture. Conclusion: The results of the study show that enucleation followed by GCC is a safe, effective and low-cost therapy for the management of OKC.