Discussion

Abstract

This is a meaningful and honest account of the application of the cryosurgery of bone to one particular problem, namely the high recurrence potential of the odontogenic keratocyst (OKC). The group of 26 cases reported obviously were classified in a high-risk category in that they all demonstrated recurrence after enucleation. The subsequent relapse rate of only 11.5% is therefore a worthwhile result, although there is still time for other recurrences to occur. It is important to note that the 3 cases involved were able to be effectively remedied by retreatment involving a more minor repeated enucleation and freezing. This “second look” option is an important one cited in the orthopedic cryosurgical literature in Marcove et al's 1 Marcove RC Weis LD Vaghaiwalla MR et al. Cryosurgery in the treatment of giant cell tumours of bone. Cancer. 1978; 41: 957 Crossref PubMed Scopus (136) Google Scholar classic series of cases of giant cell tumors of bone treated successfully at the Sloane Kettering Memorial Hospital.