Our Summary

This research paper is a response to a previous editorial asking if the future of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) is at risk. The authors of this paper believe there are ways to improve and sustain the field, specifically focusing on how to attract and keep more professionals in OMFS, and how to improve education and training in this specialty.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of the article ‘Our Specialty, Our Future, Is the Writing on the Wall?’ by Newman et al about Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
  2. What suggestions are made in the article to support recruitment, retention and education in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
  3. How does the article discuss the future of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery specialty?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications. This will help ensure a successful surgery and a smooth recovery process. Additionally, it is important to communicate any concerns or questions with the surgeon before the surgery to address any potential issues.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with facial trauma, congenital facial abnormalities, temporomandibular joint disorders, facial pain, facial infections, oral cancer, and orthognathic surgery for correction of jaw discrepancies. Maxillofacial surgeons may also treat patients with cleft lip and palate, obstructive sleep apnea, and facial reconstruction following tumor removal or trauma.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms or issues that require maxillofacial surgery, such as facial trauma, jaw misalignment, or congenital abnormalities.
  2. Patient consults with a maxillofacial surgeon for evaluation and discussion of treatment options.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments, such as imaging tests, blood work, and consultations with other healthcare providers.
  4. Patient receives information about the surgery, risks, benefits, and post-operative care.
  5. Patient schedules the surgery and prepares for the procedure, which may involve fasting, stopping certain medications, and arranging for transportation and aftercare.

After maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgery, which may involve general anesthesia or local anesthesia.
  2. Patient is closely monitored during and after the surgery for any complications.
  3. Patient is provided with pain management and post-operative care instructions.
  4. Patient may stay in the hospital for a period of time for observation and recovery.
  5. Patient follows up with the maxillofacial surgeon for post-operative appointments and monitoring of healing.
  6. Patient may undergo additional treatments, such as physical therapy or orthodontic adjustments, to optimize results.
  7. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences improvements in their facial appearance and function over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure are you recommending and why is it necessary?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  4. What alternative treatment options are available and how do they compare to surgery?
  5. How many times have you performed this surgery and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  7. How much pain or discomfort can I expect after the surgery and what pain management options will be available to me?
  8. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or will this be an outpatient procedure?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of?
  10. What is the expected outcome of the surgery and what kind of follow-up care will be necessary?

Reference

Authors: Woolley E. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022 Jan;60(1):82-84. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.11.022. Epub 2020 Dec 8. PMID: 33678450