Modified “Dredging Method” for complicated solid/multicystic ameloblastoma in the mandible: Report of a case treated by fractionated enucleation

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe the treatment procedures for a solid/multicystic ameloblastoma which was treated with the “Dredging Method” modified by fractionated enucleation adopted to avoid the pathologic fracture because of the complicated expansive nature in the mandible. Ameloblastoma is defined as a benign epithelial odontogenic tumor with progressive growth potential. Currently employed surgical treatment as curative treatment is resection with adequate margins because of the characteristics of high recurrence rates with conservative treatment. In this article, a 38-year-old male with swelling on the right mandible was referred to our hospital. Image analysis showed an expansile partially honeycombed multilocular radiolucent lesion from the body to the ascending ramus of the mandible. A follicular ameloblastoma was diagnosed by the biopsy. The paper also details the management of the ameloblastoma with the “Dredging Method” to remove the tumor completely and maintain the form and function of the mandible and the 13-year follow-up post treatment.