Radiotherapy and Management in Maxillofacial Prosthodontic: Part 1- Before Radiotherapy

Abstract

Anti-cancer treatments (surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) lead to numerous sequelae and side effects, unpleasant or even disabling in the oral cavity. In the absence of appropriate dental care, the consequences can be highly detrimental.The side effects of radiotherapy, the loss of substances following often associated surgical interventions and the unfavorable context of these patients require rational planning and consultation approved by the various practionners.The management of patients before, during and after these anticancer treatments by the specialist in maxillofacial prosthesis is important, in fact the objectives outlined to be achieved in terms of the management of PMF are: restoration of orofacial functions, participation in the proper conduct of anticancer treatment, palliation of its complications and psychological support for these patients.The aim of this article is to review the various complications of radiotherapy, as well as the protocols and recommendations for the management of patients before radiotherapy and to highlight the role of the specialist in maxillofacial prosthodontics in this management.

Protective and positioning devices in maxillofacial prosthodontics and radiotherapy: Overview

“…The stents are designed to separate the maxilla from the mandible [19] ; A lower position of the tongue and the mandible allows the radiotherapist to move the radiation fields and therefore spare much of the salivary glands from irradiation. The height of the interocclusal base depends on the degree of the oral opening (1/2 to 2/3 of the oral opening) [8] , [23] . Finally, this position must be reproducible during radiotherapy sessions.…”