What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study to review surgical outcomes of microvascular reconstruction for advanced mandibular osteoradionecrosis, comparing patients with and without prior hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
What They Found
The overall complication rate was 43%, but 97% (29 of 30) of patients achieved clinical resolution of their osteoradionecrosis, with no flap failures. Patients who had received prior hyperbaric oxygen therapy were significantly more likely to experience postoperative wound infection (P=.01) and overall surgical complications (P=.04) after reconstruction.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that Canadian patients with advanced osteoradionecrosis who have previously undergone hyperbaric oxygen therapy may face a higher risk of complications following microvascular reconstruction. This information can help clinicians and patients in Canada make more informed decisions regarding treatment planning and risk assessment.
Canadian Relevance
This study was not conducted in Canada and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study's retrospective design and the infrequent use of perioperative hyperbaric oxygen therapy limited the ability to fully assess its effects.