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Oral Surgery · single question

A patient with a history of head and neck radiation presents for dental treatment. What is the BEST next step?

  1. Ask the physician about the radiation doses and area
  2. Ask the physician about the recommendation of the prosthesis options for the patient
  3. Proceed with treatment as normal
  4. Refer to oral surgeon immediately
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Correct answer: A. Ask the physician about the radiation doses and area

Before treating a patient with prior head/neck radiation, you must know the radiation field and dose to assess risk of osteoradionecrosis, xerostomia, trismus, etc. Consulting the physician for dose/area is the highest-priority first step. Prosthesis recommendations come later. Proceeding normally risks serious complications.

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