DENTAL ASSISTANCE IN AN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT TO THE PATIENT WITH WERDNIG-HOFFMAN SYNDROME: REPORT OF TWO CASES

Abstract

Purpose: To report the cases of two patients with the type I spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) or Werdinig- Hoffman syndrome, admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Universitary Hospital Alcides Carneiro (UHAC) in the city of Campina Grande-PB. Case report: Male patients, both 8 years old, dependente on mechanical ventilation, presented early manifestation of atrophy and progressive muscle weakness, which prevented the development of motor skills, causing severe respiratory impairment. In the intensive care environment, in the context of a multidisciplinary team, the effect of the dental care service on promoting the quality of life of these patients stands out, acting especially in the control of pathogens. Conclusions: Oral disorders are potential sources of systemic worsening, must be prevented and resolved by a qualified dental surgeon working in a hospital environment, and willing to leverage the work of the multidisciplinary team, ensuring that care is integral.

Keywords: Muscular Atrophy, Spinal. Neuromuscular Diseases. Dental Care.