Recurrence rates of intraosseous ameloblastomas of the jaws: a systematic review of conservative versus aggressive treatment approaches and meta-analysis of non-randomized studies.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to define and evaluate the post-treatment recurrence of unicystic and solid or multicystic ameloblastoma lesions, measured as counts of first time recurrences.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis was planned according to the PRISMA statement and in order to include randomized and non-randomized clinical trials and observational studies in humans. Seven electronic databases were searched from their start up to December 2013 without limitation to year, language or publication status.

RESULTS

A total of seven non-randomized studies with 229 cases of treated ameloblastoma lesions were included in the quantitative synthesis. The summary recurrence rate of ameloblastomas for the unicystic and solid or multicystic variants ranged from 0.2% to 12% and 0.8% to 38% respectively. The comparison of a conservative treatment approach versus radical in solid or multicystic ameloblastoma favored the radical.

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of studies with low risk of bias precludes the making of strong clinical recommendations while resection may be preferable in both unicystic and solid or multicystic. ameloblastomas.