PREVENCIJA I LIJEČENJE ORALNIH KOMPLIKACIJA RADIO(KEMO)TERAPIJE U PODRUČJU GLAVE I VRATA
PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF ORAL COMPLICATION OF RADIO(CHEMO)THERAPY HEAD AND NECK

Summary/Abstract: Aim: Elaborate the role of a stomatologist, who is in charge of oral health of patients undergoing radiotherapy, which is incompletely understood by oncology team and by the patients. Appropriate stomatological care can contribute better quality of life during and particularly after the radiotherapy. Background: The treatment of malignancies of head and neck includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and the combination of these methods. Head and Neck cancer accounts for high percentage of radio-therapeutic casuistics. Orofacial region is important area for nuclear medicine. Radiation induces multiple side effects on molecular, cellular, tissue, organ and systemic level. Local and systemic reaction of radiotherapyside effects are known as postradiation syndrome. Methods: Limited number of references was analyzed in relation to epidemiology of oral carcinoma and postradation syndrome of head and neck. Radiation syndrome of head and neck is ascribed by treatments before-, during and after radiation. Resultsand discussion are presented through evaluation: oral mucositis, hyposalivation– xerostomia, radiation caries, trismus, dysfunction of taste – dysgeusia, osteoradionecrosis of jaws, insufficiency of nutrition. These functional disorders: pain,mastication, swallowing, loss of taste, appetite, speech and communication lead to a poor quality of life of these patients. Proceeding head and neck radiotherapy,every patient should undergo a dental examination and receive individualized dental treatment. This article is a detailed preview of stomatogical treatments before-, during and after radiation therapy in order to reduce the mentioned complications and ensure higher possible quality of life of patients with postradiation syndrome. Stable oral health is prerequisite for good general health. Conclusion:Especially educated stomatologist should be an indispensible part of oncology team for patients undergoing a treatment of radio(chemo)therapy. Stomatologist can influence more comfortable and better quality of life for these patients.

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