Odontogenic keratocyst arises from proliferation of residues of the dental lamina. The term "odontogenic keratocyst" was introduced by Philipsen (1956). This cyst differs clinically and histologically from the majority of the odontogenic cysts. In general, the lining of odontogenic keratocyst consists of stratified squamous epithelium with absence of rete pegs. The odontogenic keratocyst of the mandible in a 46-year-old man was treated by total enucleation of the right ramus and part of the body of the mandible. Our surgical procedure of decortication and subsequent replacement of bone is a modification of the osteoplastic operation technique described by Moose (1952) and Liposky (1980). The auther wish to thank Dr. G. A. Sisson, M. D. (Professor, Department of Otolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Northwestern University), Dr. D. A. Kernahan, M. D., and Dr. M. E. Schafer, M. D. (Department of Plastic Surgery, Chicago Children Memorial Hospital) for their suggestions.
