Original scientific paper
Evaluation of a Saliva Substitute Developed for Postiradiation Xerostomia Treatment 2. Five-Year Experience
Darko Macan
; School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Berislav Perić
; School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Zdenko Krajina
; Klinika za tumore, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Mišo Virag
; School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Krešimir Rukavina
; Ljekarna “Zagreb”, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Abstract
A carboxymethylcellulosa-containing saliva substitute with inclusion of Na-fluoride developed for use by xerostomic patients undergoing radiotherapy for malignancies of the head and neck, was evaluated. The questionnaire was used to obtain subjective responses regarding its use and effectiveness. Fifty patients were prospectively evaluated. Xerostomia developed approximately 8 days after radiotherapy had started. After the treatment, 94% of the patients reported relief of intraoral soft tissue problems approximately 5 days after the use. The condition was reported as “much better” by 26% and “better” by 68% of the patients. The duration of relief varied from 1-6 h. A statistically significant improvement was recorded in surface wetting, speech, swallowing and chewing (p<0.005).
Keywords
saliva substitute; xerostomia; head and neck cancer; radiotherapy
Hrčak ID:
99100
URI
Publication date:
15.3.1995.
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