Effects of therapeutic radiation on microstructure of the human mandible

Mandibular bone from eight patients who had received therapeutic radiation (6,000-7,200 rads) for intra-oral cancer was obtained at surgery (1 month to 9 years after radiation) and compared histologically with non-irradiated mandibular bone from five subjects. Measurements made on the internal remod...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inAmerican journal of anatomy Vol. 151; no. 2; p. 295
Main Authors Savostin-Asling, I, Silverman, Jr, S
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.02.1978
Subjects
Adult
Aged
Bone Resorption - radiation effects
Female
Humans
Male
Mandibular Diseases - etiology
Mandibular Diseases - pathology
Middle Aged
Mouth Neoplasms - radiotherapy
Radiation Injuries - pathology
Radiotherapy - adverse effects
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Summary:Mandibular bone from eight patients who had received therapeutic radiation (6,000-7,200 rads) for intra-oral cancer was obtained at surgery (1 month to 9 years after radiation) and compared histologically with non-irradiated mandibular bone from five subjects. Measurements made on the internal remodeling process of cortical bone included the extent of internal surface and the fraction indicating resorption, and the proportions of osteones which were incomplete (less than 3/4 filled with matrix), complete, and plugged. Appreciable differences were observed in all parameters except plugged osteones. The findings suggested early cessation of osteogenesis, and somewhat later cessation of resopriton, without subsequent resumption of either process. The histologic appearance of the osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteones was in accord. Microfractures found in the irradiated bone were not seen to have healed. Radiation damage to the osteoprogenitor cells is postulated.
ISSN:0002-9106
DOI:10.1002/aja.1001510210