What Researchers Did
Researchers surveyed 175 radiation oncologists and 118 hyperbaric medicine physicians to assess their professional attitudes and confidence regarding hyperbaric oxygen therapy for preventing mandibular osteoradionecrosis during dental extractions.
What They Found
Among those not recommending hyperbaric oxygen therapy, 52% of radiation oncologists and 38% of hyperbaric medicine physicians cited a lack of evidence (p = 0.03). A significant majority, 79% of radiation oncologists and 85% of hyperbaric medicine physicians, expressed the importance of conducting a new randomized controlled trial.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancers who require dental extractions may find that the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for prevention of osteoradionecrosis is being re-evaluated. This ongoing discussion and call for new research could lead to updated, evidence-based treatment guidelines for their care.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A limitation of this study is that it relies on survey responses, which may not fully represent actual clinical practice or the views of all practitioners in these specialties.