Aspiration pneumonitis: etiology, therapy, and prevention.

Aspiration pneumonitis is a serious potential complication of many procedures that oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform. It is therefore necessary for all practitioners to be familiar with current concepts concerning the pathophysiology and treatment of this disorder. More importantly, techniques that decrease the likelihood of aspiration should be practiced whenever possible. This paper presents the etiology, therapy (in both office and hospital settings), and means of preventing pulmonary aspiration. Special emphasis will be given to the current controversies surrounding the use of corticosteroids and antibiotics.