My husband had the same problem. He was on narcotics for about a year and a half. I was concerened too. He had a surgery to help fix the problem. Didnt get the result we were hoping for. The pain stoped about 6 months after the last surgery, and the bone is still exposed. I really dont know why the bone is still exposed and it doesnt hurt.
He did finally get off the drugs, but not until his pain was gone, he just couldnt take it. He did get off the duladid, with out to much problem. I think he was just happy to be pain free.
I hope they can find something to help her.

Cheryl