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Special Health Care Needs

23 - Oral Healthcare Practices in United States Pediatric Transplant Centers

Friday, May 22, 2026
10:40 AM - 10:55 AM PST
Has Audio
Abstract:


Purpose: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a therapeutic modality for the treatment of malignant and non-malignant disorders in pediatric patients. Despite its curative potential, HSCT is associated with significant oral complications, including mucositis, infections, and chronic graft-versus-host disease. that can adversely affect quality of life and clinical outcomes. There is limited research on oral healthcare practices at pediatric transplant centers in the United States (U.S.). This study aimed to assess current oral healthcare practices for children undergoing HSCT.



Methods: A standardized survey was developed by a team of pediatric medical and dental specialists and sent to 83 pediatric HSCT centers in the US. Data was statistically analyzed.



Results: With a response rate was 62%, the survey findings demonstrated that most patients undergoing treatment receive dental evaluations (98%). Additionally, 75% of the responding HSCT centers ensured that medically necessary dental treatment is completed before HSCT. Interestingly, 87.5% of the responding HSCT centers have access to a dentist with hospital privileges. A majority of the HSCT centers (95.8%) recommend daily toothbrushing with or without chlorhexidine rinses. Patients and caregivers receive verbal educational instructions for maintaining oral health during HSCT at most centers (77%). Lack of availability to provide dental treatment was reported as a major concern by 50% of the responding centers. Other reported challenges include management of chronic graft-versus-host disease and mucositis.



Conclusions: Within the limitations of the study, most HSCT centers have well integrated oral healthcare plans for patients, prior to HSCT with regular oral care follow-up.

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