Comparing pain control and ability to eat and drink with standard therapy vs Gelclair: a preliminary, double centre, randomised controlled trial on patients with radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis.

Unlabelled: GOAL OF THE WORK: Oral mucositis (OM) is a functionally destructive complication of aggressive head and neck cancer therapy, often resulting in intense pain, an inability to eat and drink and secondary malnutrition and dehydration. The barrier-forming properties of Gelclair have shown promise in relieving such symptoms. The aim of this randomised-controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of Gelclair, as compared to standard therapy, as a means of short-term symptom control for patients suffering from radiotherapy-induced OM.

Patient burden of centralization of head and neck cancer surgery.

This study was undertaken to assess the impact on patients of proposals to centralize head and neck oncology services in the UK. A retrospective audit of the 2001-2002 head and neck cancer database at South Devon district general hospital identified 85 patients (50 males: 35 females; median age 66 years; range 29-93) diagnosed with head and neck cancer. The total number of hospital visits for diagnostic, therapeutic and other management services were recorded (median number of visits 28; range 1-78).