Ethics & Law · single question
A patient is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Which of the following treatment plans should NOT be performed?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Implant placement
Dental implant placement is contraindicated in terminal cancer patients because: (1) the prognosis does not support long-term restorative planning, (2) patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy have impaired healing, (3) implants require significant surgical intervention, osseointegration time, and maintenance. Treatment should be focused on palliative care — comfort, pain relief, and quality of life.
- A. Palliative restorations are entirely appropriate for terminal cancer patients to maintain comfort and oral function.
- B. CORRECT. Implant placement is NOT appropriate for terminal cancer patients. The invasive nature of surgery, requirement for osseointegration, systemic contraindications from cancer treatment, and limited life expectancy make implants inappropriate in this context.
- C. Denture adjustment for comfort is an appropriate, non-invasive palliative measure.
- D. Extracting symptomatic teeth to relieve pain is appropriate palliative care for terminal cancer patients.