What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed the incidence of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaw in head and neck cancer patients treated with radiation therapy at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, comparing periods before and after an oral care program was instituted.
What They Found
Before 1974, osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaw occurred in 10.9% of 220 irradiated cancer patients, but after an oral care program was implemented, the incidence declined to 2.7%. Specifically, from 1976 to 1985, only 3 out of 109 patients (2.7%) developed ORN of the mandible, and in 1986, only 1 of 30 patients experienced ORN.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer may benefit from comprehensive oral care programs to significantly reduce their risk of developing osteoradionecrosis. Implementing such programs could lead to fewer complications and improved quality of life following cancer treatment.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
This review is limited by its retrospective nature, reliance on data from a single institution, and its publication date in 1989, which may not reflect current treatment protocols.