[Odontogenic inflammations of head and neck area treated in the Department of Otolaryngology in St. Lukasz Regional Hospital - five years observation].

INTRODUCTION: In the ethology of inflammations within the head and neck area, odontogenic ethology still plays an important role. Early recognition, diagnosis and management of odontogenic infections are requisites for avoiding or minimizing the development of potential complications. THE AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the clinical presentation, surgical management and cost implications of patients treated for odontogenic inflammations of head and neck area at the Department of Otolaryngology in the Regional Hospital in Tarnow in last 5 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was based on medical documentations of 65 patients, 34 males and 31 females between the age of 16-83 years. RESULTS: Despite common accessibility of wholesome education and dental prevention, a lot of patients disregard their disorders. That's why treatment of odontogenic inflammations is often difficult and prolonged. The authors reveal a cost burden in a public health care as a result of odontogenic inflammations.