Prevention of osteoradionecrosis in patients with head and neck cancer treated with radiation therapy.

BACKGROUND

Osteoradionecrosis is a long-term, serious side effect of head and neck radiation therapy and is associated with significant morbidity and quality of life issues.

METHODS

This paper sought to determine consensus on the prevention and management of osteoradionecrosis by an international panel of multidisciplinary professionals expert in the management of patients with head and neck cancer using a Delphi methodology. Unique to this work is our direct inclusion of the views of patients and carers in our findings.

RESULTS

This study reached consensus on the importance of pre and post oral health assessment and education for patients with head and neck cancer. This was also noted by the patients and carers who took part in the study.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights the need for a standardized oral health assessment tool and multidisciplinary care of patients to prevent and manage osteoradionecrosis.