Journal of Disability and Oral Health

cover art

Cover Date:
June 2013
Print ISSN:
1470-8558
Vol:
14
Issue:
2

Investigation into the cancer and radiation history of a cohort of patients with osteoradionecrosis following dental extractions in irradiated areas

Doi: 10.4483/JDOH_019Pepper10

Abstract Aim and Objectives: To investigate the cancer and radiation history of patients referred for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to treat osteoradionecrosis (ORN) associated with dental extractions in irradiated fields, in order to determine risk factors and thus potential methods of prevention. Method: Data were collected from 51 patients referred for HBOT to treat ORN related to dental extractions in irradiated areas. Data collected included gender, age, cancer and radiotherapy details, details of extractions and of ORN. Results: Previous advanced-stage tumours, time elapsed since radiotherapy, and mandibular extractions were all associated with the development of ORN. 50% (of the 36 patients from whom radiation dosage data were available) had received a total radiation dose of or lower than the 55 Gy threshold which is generally considered to be required for ORN to occur. Conclusions: The authors recommend that dentists routinely enquire about patients’ head and neck radiation history (no matter how long ago the radiotherapy was received). If a patient has received head and neck radiotherapy, particular caution should be taken if the teeth requiring extraction are mandibular. Prior to extraction, information should ideally be sought from the treating oncologist regarding the risk of ORN. A total radiation dose of < 55 Gy should not be regarded as low risk, because the risk of developing ORN cannot be determined by total radiotherapy dose alone.

Key words: Osteoradionecrosis, dental extractions, radiotherapy, special care dentistry

Article Price
£15.00
Institution Article Price
£
Page Start
53
Page End
60
Authors
J R E Pepper, C C Gaffney, S J Oliver, A J Cronin, P J Bryson

Articles from this issue

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  • Pg. End

  1. Editorial - Education in Special Care Dentistry- too exclusive?
  2. 40
  3. 40

  1. Guidance on the core content of an Undergraduate Curriculum in Special Care Dentistry
  2. 41
  3. 42

  1. Evaluation of a pilot programme for increasing dental clinicians’ knowledge and confidence in treating children and adolescents with disabilities
  2. 43
  3. 51

  1. Investigation into the cancer and radiation history of a cohort of patients with osteoradionecrosis following dental extractions in irradiated areas
  2. 53
  3. 60

  1. NICE guidelines on antibiotic prophylaxis against infective endocarditis: An audit of patients understanding of the guidelines, and the implications for dental practitioners
  2. 61
  3. 72

  1. The impact of congenital alkaline phosphatase deficiency on oral health condition: a literature review
  2. 73
  3. 81

  1. Diary Dates
  2. 86
  3. 86

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