STOMATOLOG, ČLAN ONKOLOŠKOG TIMA U RADIO(KEMO)TERAPIJI GLAVE I VRATA
STOMATOLOGIST, MEMBER OF THE ONCOLOGICAL TEAM IN RADIO(CHEMO)THERAPY OF HEAD AND NECK

Summary/Abstract: Background: Oral complications of oral, head and neck cancer (OHNC) radiotherapy(RT) account for increased morbidity, mortality and treatment costs. RT induces reversible and irreversible changes of involved tissues in the radiation field. Aim: Introduction of a multimodal team approach that would include responsible dentist would yield better overall treatment results, and would diminishoral sequelae of OHNC treatment. Method: Our currently applied protocol in OHNC patients includes standardized procedures that assess and prepare patients'oral status for RT. Previously, this form of care was not existent, and neither were patients under formal supervision of oral health care professional during radiotherapy. As a consequence, high rate of radiotherapy interruption and delay due to oral mucositis and long term oral complications are encountered. With a common goal to introduce prevention and treatment of oral complications as standardized practice in OHNC patients, we have created a protocol in accordance with internationally accepted clinical practice, based on the inclusion of dental professionals throughout the treatment and follow-up phases. Results: This paper describes our strategies and pitfalls we have encountered. Conclusion: It is isvery demanding and slowly developing process. Our efforts will have substantial clinical and economic impact on OHNC patients’ treatment.

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