Reduction in the incidence of postradiation dental complications in cancer patients by continuous quality improvement techniques.
The major dental consequences of radiation treatment to the head and neck are reviewed, and the role of the dentist in the management of these patients outlined. By using a concurrent patient data base and integrating quality assurance (clinical indicators) and quality improvement, a clinical department demonstrates how the risk of dental morbidity can be identified and reduced.
Maxymiw
W G
WG
Department of Dentistry, Ontario Cancer Institute/Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto.
Rothney
L M
LM
Sutcliffe
S B
SB
D000328:Adult; D003149:Community Dentistry; D003729:Dental Care; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007256:Information Systems; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007571:Jaw Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D009910:Oral Hygiene; D010025:Osteoradionecrosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010039:Otorhinolaryngologic Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D017064:Process Assessment, Health Care; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D016312:Treatment Refusal