Recurrent ameloblastoma of the jaws. A follow-up study.

Twenty-six cases of recurrent ameloblastoma of the jaws within a 15-year period are presented. They represent 8.9% of all cases of ameloblastoma seen in this period. The highest incidence was found in the third decade of life. There is a higher incidence of recurrences in the mandible (16/26) as compared to the maxilla (6/26). Over 80% of the recurrences presented within five years of primary surgery, emphasising the need for adequate and intensive follow-up during this critical period. Three patients whose lesions were operated on in the mandible showed similar lesions in the maxilla after a period of time. Conservative procedures at primary surgery produced the most recurrences. The cure rate for surgery of maxillary ameloblastoma was comparatively poor. The need for good visibility, adequate access and radical surgery in maxillary ameloblastoma is stressed.