[Prophylaxis with antibiotics after radiotherapy in the head and neck area]

A side effect of radiotherapy in the head and neck area is a reduction of the capillary blood flow and with it, a reduction in local defenses. Depending on the duration and intensity of the radiation, hypoxia, hypocellularity and hypovascularity, may occur, resulting in an increased risk of infection. Hyposalivation, a commonly occurring phenomenon after radiotherapy, leads to a higher caries sensitivity. To keep oral health at an acceptable level as much as possible, teeth are checked by a dentist prior to radiotherapy. Non-essential teeth and teeth with pathology are extracted, in order to prevent future problems. Dental treatment in the area treated with radiation will nevertheless sometimes be necessary after radiotherapy. Because the risk of infection is high and may result in the loss of part of the jaw, antibiotic prophylaxis is started prior to invasive treatment. In general, amoxicillin 500 mg 3dd 1 is chosen for 14 days. After treatment, wound healing should be checked by the specialist.