Management of the patient with cystic fibrosis in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is now an adult disease. Approximately 30,000 children and adults are affected by this disease. CF, an autosomal recessive disease, is considered to be the most lethal inherited trait among Caucasians. The median age for the CF patient has significantly increased over the past 60 years. Today's oral and maxillofacial surgery practice is likely to include patients with CF with varying surgical needs. This article will review diagnosis, pathophysiology, and systemic complications of CF, and discuss relevant information for management of the CF patient for the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Recommendations will be made for preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative care of these patients.