Oral health access and self-reported outcomes in patients with chronic intestinal failure requiring home intravenous support.

Background: Patients with chronic intestinal failure (CIF) may be predisposed to poor oral health outcomes. This study explored the self-reported oral health status, function, and psychological impacts of oral health of adult patients with CIF, their access to dental care, and how these compare with the broader population.

Methods: All patients >18 years old receiving home intravenous therapies for CIF were invited to complete a self-reported questionnaire providing information on oral health status and access to oral health services. Collateral information was provided by treating clinicians. Descriptive data analysis was undertaken, including subgroup analysis of clinical characteristics, and was compared with the available population-level data.

Results: Twenty-four patients participated. Short gut and dysmotility accounted for 88% of the etiologies of CIF. Respondents reported good preventative oral health behaviors (96%), accessing dental care within the last 12 months (75%), and limited barriers to receiving care. Dry mouth (96%), oral pain (59%), and temperature sensitivity (60%) were commonly reported across the cohort. Smoking history and reduced oral diet were associated with significantly worse self-reported oral health outcomes. Patients with CIF reported worse oral health outcomes despites better oral health access than the general population.

Conclusion: Patients with CIF appear to be at risk of poor oral health outcomes, especially where smoking or reduced oral intake are concurrently involved. Clinicians involved in CIF care should be alert to the oral health needs of this population and consider oral and dental health as part of the multidisciplinary care required for optimal CIF care.