Impact of covid-19 on radiotherapy protocol for cancers of the head and neck region

Abstract

The Journal of Indian Prosthodontic Society | Volume 20 | Supplement 1 | December 2020 S35 most Head and Neck cancer patients, the high risk of them acquiring Covid-19 and then making chances of survival slim to none; is a reality most oncologists have to plan around now. Summary: A scoping review was planned keeping in mind the need arising from the pandemic and online research databases were scanned for articles related to radiation therapy protocols for head and neck cancer patients and the changes required to sustain radiation therapy for those in critical need. New guidelines based on what has been learnt about the virus were found for such patients mainly from ASTRO/ESTRO. Conclusion: Treating cancer patients with Radiation therapy while surgeries are postponed seems the most practical and viable option to limit exposure to clinical environments that could be contaminated. It also makes them less reliant on the availability of hospital beds which are mostly being reserved for Covid-19 patients and relieves the burden on the existing medical equipment, infrastructure, and resources, medical and paramedical staff. Although protocols are evolving with each new input around the virus, an institution based planning and approach is needed. DOI: 10.4103/0972-4052.306406 Maximum esthetics with minimum trauma to the teeth ; the smart art and part of esthetic dentistry: ‘Veneers’