Oral findings of patients in the intensive care unit: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Patients in intensive care units often experience a decline in oral health. Systematic reports of oral findings in these patients are scarce. Objective: To document oral cavity lesions in patients in Intensive Care Units. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted, with a literature search across five databases, focusing on publications from 2018 to 2023. The identified articles were imported into the Mendeley reference manager; titles and abstracts were reviewed in pairs and under blinded conditions. Pre-selected articles were exported to the Rayyan application for eligibility assessment. Quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. This research is classified as risk-free and complies with copyright regulations by exercising citation rights (Law 1915 of 2018 and Law 1032 of 2006). Results: A total of 1553 articles were identified. Using the PRISMA methodology, 11 studies were included, with 54% retrieved from PubMed and 91% published in English. Toothbrushing was the most frequently documented oral care procedure. Gingivitis and ulcers were the most frequent oral findings. Discussion: The literature confirms the presence of oral findings in these patients, which are related to their systemic health status, procedures, equipment, and oral health care protocols. Conclusion: Although oral care is provided at a high rate in critically ill patients, oral alterations and lesions are frequently observed. The involvement of a dentist is essential for the comprehensive care of these patients.