A study of protocols used by Dentists in the management of oral mucositis in critically ill cancer patients
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i2.50652Keywords:
Oral mucositis, Laser therapy, Hospital dentistry, Critically ill patient, Intensive Care Unit.Abstract
Oral mucositis is a common inflammatory condition in patients undergoing intensive care, being especially prevalent in oncology patients after systemic therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Its development is related to the cytotoxic effects of these treatments on the rapidly renewing cells of the oral mucosa. The diagnosis is established based on patient history combined with a thorough clinical examination of the oral cavity. Clinical manifestations vary, including pain, hyperemia, and the presence of ulcerative lesions. The involvement of the dental surgeon in the comprehensive care of critically ill patients with oral mucositis, including the use of laser therapy by this professional, aids in the effective control of mucositis, preventing the onset of comorbidities in patients hospitalized in intensive care units (ICU), and reducing the length of hospital stay. The present study aims to conduct a systematic review comparing the use of low-level laser therapy with other protocols in the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis in critically ill oncology patients, including those admitted to the ICU, highlighting its clinical benefits and the relevance of hospital dentistry in comprehensive care. The results of this study indicate that laser therapy has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and biostimulatory effects, contributing to pain reduction, accelerated tissue healing, and improved patient comfort, demonstrating that it is a safe and more effective strategy compared to other methods used in the context of intensive care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Paola Fernanda Leal Corazza, Denise de Andrade Leandro, Esther Mariane Leite Farias, Vitória Jacinto dos Santos, Maurício Teixeira Duarte, Andreia Medeiros Rodrigues Cardoso, Fernando Martins Baeder
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