Abstract: Objective The primary approach to treating large cystic lesions is controversial. The aims of the present study were to assess the effects of decompression before enucleation for the treatment of large cystic lesions and to compare the rate of decrease of the lesions every three months so as to provide some guidance for clinicians on when to do the enucleations. Patients and Methods The study included 46 patients with large mandibular lesions (>3 cm). Decompression was used to release intraluminal pressure and decrease the volume of the lesion. Cone Bean computed tomography was applied to all patients every three months after decompression. Volumetric analysis was performed using software designed for 3-dimensional measurement of volumes. Other variables, such as age, gender, and rate of decrease, were recorded. Results: There were important differences in rates of decrease as time went by. Statistical analyses showed signi?cant differences in initial volume and duration of the lesions, while showed no signi?cant differences among groups for gender, and histologic lesion type (P > .05). Conclusion: Decompression of large cystic lesions could be useful for surgical interventions without complications.

Key words: jaw cystic lesion, Decompression therapy, Volumetric analysis