Abstract
Only 22 cases of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaws so severe as to require resection have been reported in 2,853 [human] cases of head and neck tumors receiving radiation in doses capable of causing ORN. But for surgical interference, including dental extractions both pre- and post-therapy, the incidence would have been even lower. The management of the irradiated patient and of established necrosis is discussed.