The Use of Enucleation and Chemical Cauterization (Carnoy’s) in the Management of Odontogenic Keratocyst of the Jaws

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of enucleation and chemical cauterization in the management of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) of the jaw. This study involves the retrospective review of 32 patients (20 males and 12 females) with 34 biopsy proven odontogenic keratocysts. All patients received a combination of enucleation and chemical cauterization with every time freshly prepared Carnoy’s solution (absolute alcohol 6 mL, chloroform 3 mL, glacial acetic acid 1 mL, ferric chloride 0.1 gm/mL). None of these patients were diagnosed with basal cell nevus syndrome. Four of these patients did not give the follow up and were not included in the study. A total of 30 biopsy proven OKC were resolved with this treatment method. Post-operative follow up consists of clinical and radiographic examination. Follow up time ranged from a minimum of 2 years to a maximum of 5 years. Mean follow up was of 2.8 years. Recurrence rate of 5.8% was observed. Hence, concluded that the combination of enucleation and chemical cauterization may offer patients improved therapy in the management of odontogenic keratocysts of the jaws.