COMPLICATIONS OF NECK RADIATION

    Damage to the soft tissues can result from radiation of the head or the neck itself. Incidental damage to the thyroid gland, or the effects of intentional internal or external radiation, have not yet been fully evaluated.

    The death of laryngeal (voice box) tissue occurs in less than 1 percent of well designed larynx radiation treatment programs. When subsequent tissue swelling persists, it can constrict the airway. The continued production of dead tissue makes the breath foul.

    In the past, the only solution was the removal of the voice box.Today, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can result in significant or total resolution of pain, swelling, and tissue death and often restore the ability to speak.

    Damage to the cervical spine (neck bones) and bone death can result following radiation of the head and neck. Inflammation of the bone may require reconstructive surgery. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy after surgery or alone has been effective for improving symptoms and function.

    HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY is 83 percent effective in resolving symptoms for these patients.

    For more information about what hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be able to do for you, contact:

©2008 Florida Oxygen