What is the recommended protocol for patients with a resected mandible undergoing dental reconstruction?

The recommended protocol for patients with a resected mandible undergoing dental reconstruction is to use a hyperbaric oxygen chamber for pre- and post-surgery sessions. This approach plays a significant role in enhancing the healing process, especially for patients who have undergone surgical removal of tissue, such as the mandible. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood, significantly improving the delivery of oxygen to damaged tissues. This is crucial in promoting wound healing, reducing the risk of infection, and enhancing the body's ability to recover from major surgical interventions.

In the context of dental reconstruction following mandibular resection, the use of hyperbaric oxygen can lead to better outcomes by minimizing complications associated with the surgical site. The therapy is effective in promoting angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels, essential for healing in areas with compromised blood supply.

While standard oxygen therapy may benefit some patients, it does not provide the enhanced benefits associated with hyperbaric oxygen, which is critical in complex surgical cases like mandible ressection. Limiting oxygen therapy to post-surgery only may not effectively support the healing process that starts pre-operatively. Administering antibiotics prior to the procedure is a common practice to prevent infection but does not