Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Osteonecrosis of the jaw affects the mandibular bone and the maxillary bone. Other sites reported have been the femoral neck and head, wrist and ear ossicles and know that this is related to "frozen bone" that has prompted concern about the bisphosphonate use in treatment of osteoporosis over the last 5 years.

Many of us have known this as avascular necrosis because certainly that's what it is. A close relationship between this and bisphosphonate therapy has given an increased interest. There have been over 3000 reported cases and over 400 lawsuits have resulted. The Wall Street Journal has focused on jawbones that "rot and die" after IV or oral therapy.

The intravenous use of the bisphosphonate puts people at greatest risk. Although absorption is only a quarter of a percent of Fosamax the half-life being 10 to 12 years makes it is the most dangerous of oral medications. The largest number of lawsuits have directed toward Fosamax.

On August 12, 2006 I had a small meeting of 10 oral surgeons, two oncologists and one endocrinologist to discuss this situation. The transcript of all that was discussed will be out in 10 to 14 days or anyone who would like a copy just send me an e-mail and I will send it to you when it becomes available.