Our Summary

The research paper investigates the use of social media applications for training residents in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) in Germany. An online survey was sent to OMFS residents to understand their current use of social media for training. 64 residents participated in the study, with 54% reporting regular use of social media platforms, primarily for content related to OMFS. The most popular platforms were YouTube, Instagram, ResearchGate, and WhatsApp. The most accessed content types were videos, pictures, and graphics. 69% of participants stated that social media substantially contributed to their training, especially in the areas of dentoalveolar surgery and implantology and aesthetic facial surgery. 80% of participants recommended an official social media account for the German Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (DGMKG). The study concludes that social media is commonly used for training in OMFS and suggests that academic institutions should leverage this emerging educational tool.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the research paper on the use of social media applications for training residents in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
  2. What were the most popular social media platforms used by OMFS residents for training according to the study?
  3. What percentage of the surveyed OMFS residents in Germany recommended an official social media account for the German Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include guidelines for pain management, wound care, diet restrictions, and follow-up appointments. It’s important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with facial trauma, congenital deformities (such as cleft lip and palate), jaw misalignment (orthognathic surgery), temporomandibular joint disorders, facial pain, oral cancer, and other conditions affecting the face, jaw, or mouth. Maxillofacial surgery may also be recommended for patients in need of dental implants, bone grafts, or other reconstructive procedures.

Timeline

  • Before maxillofacial surgery:
  1. Patient experiences symptoms or issues with their facial structure or function that require surgical intervention.
  2. Patient consults with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their concerns and explore treatment options.
  3. Pre-operative assessments, including physical examinations, imaging tests, and consultations with other healthcare providers, are conducted to determine the best course of action.
  4. Patient receives information about the surgery, including risks, benefits, and post-operative care instructions.
  5. Patient undergoes the surgery, which may involve procedures such as jaw realignment, facial reconstruction, or dental implants.
  • After maxillofacial surgery:
  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored by healthcare staff for any immediate post-operative complications.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty eating or speaking in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient follows a prescribed post-operative care plan, which may include pain medication, wound care instructions, and dietary restrictions.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their maxillofacial surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient undergoes rehabilitation, such as physical therapy or speech therapy, to regain normal function and appearance.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may require ongoing dental or facial treatments to achieve optimal results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure(s) will be performed during the maxillofacial surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
  4. How many surgeries of this type have you performed in the past?
  5. What alternative treatment options are available for my condition?
  6. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  8. How long will the surgery take and will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
  9. Will there be any visible scarring or changes in my facial appearance after the surgery?
  10. What is the expected outcome of the surgery and what are the long-term results I can expect?

Reference

Authors: Seifert LB, Becker P, Pabst A, Sander AK, Schneider J, Schorn L, Zeller A, Hoffmann J, Thiem DGE. Journal: BMC Oral Health. 2023 Apr 12;23(1):212. doi: 10.1186/s12903-023-02872-9. PMID: 37046245