Kenneth E. Fleisher, DDS, Assistant Professor, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University, College of Dentistry, explains the steps that oncology nurses can take to monitor patients with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).

During the clinical exam nurses should ask patients who their dentist is, what treatment or management they have received, and if they saw or were evaluated by a surgeon. Once these initial items are established the nurse should inquire into the treatment that is being given, whether it is antibiotics or a rinse, and if the patient's condition is improving.

If nurses detect a patient who's condition is worsening they should establish if the symptoms are progressive, getting worse, the amount of exposed bone, a worsening clinical exam, or degraded neurological symptoms. If the patient’s condition is worsening a new or alternative treatment should be considered.

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Dr. Ken Fleisher from New York University Discusses Monitoring Patients With ONJ

Dr. Fleisher Discusses Monitoring Patients With ONJ

Kenneth E. Fleisher, DDS, Assistant Professor, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, New York University, College of Dentistry, discusses ways that nurses can identify osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a condition associated with the use of bisphosphonates.

Nurses should question patients on their dental history, specifically whether or not they have required the removal of an infected tooth or experienced pain, swelling, or neurological changes that might suggest an infection or osteonecrosis. When evaluating the oral cavity it is important to look for exposed bone, swelling, fistulas or red areas.

If symptoms occur that may suggest the occurrence of ONJ the patient should be referred to an oral or maxillofacial surgeon for evaluation.

Dr. Kenneth Fleisher from NYU College of Dentistry Explains How Nurses Can Identify osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Kenneth E. Fleisher, DDS

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Dr. Fleisher Discusses Monitoring Patients With ONJ

Dr. Fleisher Explains How Nurses Can Identify ONJ