Jaw exercise in head and neck cancer patients for prevention of temporomandibular disorders: a randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: To prospectively evaluate the effect of a preventive jaw-training intervention program on the development of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients treated for head and neck cancer (HNC).

Methods: We randomized 58 consecutive patients with squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck area into two groups before initiation of a curatively intended oncologic treatment: training with a jaw mobilizer once a day or a control group without active exercise. A comprehensive examination according to diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD) was conducted at baseline (before oncologic treatment) 6 and 12 months after completed radiation therapy (RT).

Patients' experiences of adverse symptoms, emotions, and coping strategies in connection to treatment of head and neck cancer - an interview study.

Purpose: This study aimed to increase the understanding of emotions and coping strategies used by head and neck cancer patients before cancer treatment, and to explore their emotions and coping strategies in relation to symptoms and side effects after treatment. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate the patients' perceptions of received treatment and support.

Methods: Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 patients who had been treated for head and neck cancer, which included radiotherapy, at the Department of Oncology and the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg.

The prevalence and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders in head and neck cancer patients.

Objectives: This retrospective patient survey aimed to assess the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) before and after curative oncological treatment and to identify possible risk factors.

Materials And Methods: Patients with squamous cell carcinoma in the tonsil or base of the tongue were included ( = 217). Medical records were collected to assess TMD prevalence before oncological treatment and at 6- and 12-month follow-up.

A method for preventive intervention regarding temporomandibular pain and dysfunction.

Objective: Adolescent girls frequently suffer from temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms and associated headache. A program aimed at informing about risk behavior for TMD symptoms, how to influence harmful habits and about general relaxation was tested.

Material And Methods: Eighty girls at two high schools, 16 years of age, with or without symptoms, were invited to the health information on two occasions and 60 girls participated.