Our Summary

This research paper is about the use of surgical navigation in oral and facial surgeries. Surgical navigation is a technology that helps surgeons guide their tools during surgery, making the procedure safer and more precise. It’s similar to how a GPS works in a car. It helps the surgeon to have a better view and understanding of the area they are operating on. The paper also talks about the different ways this technology can be used in various oral and facial surgeries. The use of this technology for dental implant surgeries is not covered in this paper; it’s discussed in another part of this research series.

FAQs

  1. What is the basic setup and function of surgical navigation in oral and maxillofacial surgery?
  2. What are the various applications of surgical navigation in oral and maxillofacial surgery?
  3. Is surgical navigation used for dental implant placement?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including fasting guidelines and medication restrictions. It is also important to communicate openly with the surgical team about any concerns or questions leading up to the procedure. Additionally, post-operative care instructions should be followed diligently to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with:

  1. Facial trauma: Patients who have suffered injuries to the face, such as fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, or nose, may require maxillofacial surgery to repair the damage.

  2. Jaw misalignment: Patients with malocclusion or other jaw alignment issues may benefit from maxillofacial surgery to correct the positioning of the jaw for improved function and aesthetics.

  3. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with TMJ disorders that do not respond to conservative treatments may be candidates for maxillofacial surgery to address the underlying issues causing their symptoms.

  4. Facial deformities: Patients with congenital or acquired facial deformities, such as cleft lip and palate or craniofacial anomalies, may require maxillofacial surgery to improve their appearance and function.

  5. Sleep apnea: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea may benefit from maxillofacial surgery to address structural issues in the airway that contribute to their breathing problems.

  6. Oral pathology: Patients with oral tumors, cysts, or other abnormal growths in the mouth or jaw may require maxillofacial surgery for removal and reconstruction of the affected area.

Overall, patients who are experiencing significant functional or aesthetic issues related to the face, jaw, or mouth may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery to improve their quality of life.

Timeline

Before Maxillofacial Surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with the maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the treatment plan and goals for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative assessments such as X-rays, CT scans, and dental impressions to evaluate the anatomy of the jaw and plan the surgical approach.
  3. Pre-surgical instructions regarding fasting, medications to avoid, and other preparations for the surgery.
  4. Anesthesia consultation to determine the best type of anesthesia for the procedure.
  5. Signing of consent forms and discussion of potential risks and complications.

After Maxillofacial Surgery:

  1. Recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) immediately after surgery to monitor vital signs and manage pain.
  2. Post-operative care instructions including medication management, wound care, and dietary restrictions.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Physical therapy or speech therapy may be recommended to aid in recovery and rehabilitation.
  5. Long-term follow-up appointments to assess the outcomes of the surgery and any potential need for revision procedures or further treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific maxillofacial condition do I have that requires surgery?
  2. What are the benefits of surgical navigation for my particular case?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with maxillofacial surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this surgery?
  5. How will my oral function be affected after the surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments after the surgery?
  7. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  9. What is the success rate of this surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  10. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize the results?

Reference

Authors: Demian N, Pearl C, Woernley TC 3rd, Wilson J, Seaman J. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2019 Nov;31(4):531-538. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2019.06.001. Epub 2019 Aug 7. PMID: 31399286