What Researchers Did
Researchers evaluated the effect of hyperbaric oxygenation therapy on salivary gland function and oral microbial growth in 16 head and neck cancer patients experiencing post-radiation xerostomia.
What They Found
After 20 hyperbaric oxygenation sessions, salivary flow significantly increased from 0.20 ± 0.1 to 0.39 ± 0.2 ml/min (p < 0.001) and salivary pH rose from 6.0 ± 0.2 to 6.5 ± 0.1 (p < 0.05). The xerostomia grade decreased from 2.63 ± 0.2 to 1.94 ± 0.2 (p < 0.001), and colony densities of S. mutans, Lactobacillus, and C. albicans also decreased.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients suffering from dry mouth and related oral health problems after head and neck radiation therapy might find relief with hyperbaric oxygenation. This therapy could potentially enhance salivary function and reduce harmful oral bacteria, thereby lowering the risk of dental caries and improving comfort.
Canadian Relevance
There is no direct Canadian connection mentioned in this study.
Study Limitations
The study involved a small sample size of 16 patients, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.