The procedure is done just prior to cancer surgery and takes forty-five minutes. Salagen works by stimulating moisture-producing glands in the body, including the salivary and tear glands. The drug, Ethyol, was originally developed by the U.S. Army to protect troops against radiation. Finally, an uncommon treatment for xerostomia is acupuncture. Acupuncture was performed manually for a period of twenty minutes.
Radiation therapy can have a severe negative affect on the oral cavity.
Providing complete care preradiation to postradiation is essential in preserving the integrity of the oral cavity. Communication and collaboration between the patient and the dental professional will have a significant influence on the treatment and prevention of oral manifestations in the oral cavity resulting from radiation therapy. Clinical manifestations of head and neck irradiation. Saving saliva function during treatment for head and neck cancer. Canadian Medical Association Journal.