Our Summary

This research paper discusses the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), which has been running since 1946. ABOMS regularly reviews its goals, mission, and vision. They run four exams (the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery In-service Training Examination, the Qualifying Examination, the Oral Certifying Examination, and Certificates of Added Qualifications in Head and Neck Oncologic and Reconstructive Surgery and Pediatric Craniomaxillofacial Surgery) and manage the process for maintaining certification for existing diplomates. The people who make, check, and deliver the content for these exams are volunteers on the Examination Committee and are directors of ABOMS.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS)?
  2. What are the four exams that the ABOMS administer?
  3. Who are responsible for creating, checking, and delivering the content for the ABOMS exams?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This may include guidelines for fasting before surgery, taking prescribed medications as directed, avoiding certain foods or activities, and attending follow-up appointments. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful outcome and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with congenital facial deformities such as cleft lip and palate, traumatic injuries to the face and jaw, temporomandibular joint disorders, facial pain, facial infections, oral cancer, sleep apnea, and other conditions affecting the head, neck, and jaws. Maxillofacial surgeons also perform orthognathic surgery to correct jaw misalignment, dental implant surgery, and reconstructive surgery following facial trauma or cancer treatment. Overall, maxillofacial surgery is recommended for patients who require specialized surgical treatment for conditions affecting the face, jaws, and oral cavity.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Initial consultation: The patient meets with the oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their concerns, medical history, and treatment options.
  2. Pre-operative evaluations: The patient may undergo various tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and blood work to assess their condition and plan the surgery.
  3. Treatment planning: The surgeon develops a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and goals.

During maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Anesthesia: The patient is given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
  2. Surgery: The surgeon performs the planned surgical procedures, which may include jaw realignment, facial reconstruction, or dental implant placement.
  3. Post-operative care: The patient is monitored closely in the recovery room and may stay in the hospital for a few days depending on the complexity of the surgery.

After maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Recovery: The patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery. Pain medication and a soft diet may be recommended to help with recovery.
  2. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns.
  3. Rehabilitation: Depending on the type of surgery, the patient may need physical therapy or speech therapy to regain function and mobility in the affected area.
  4. Long-term care: The patient will need to maintain good oral hygiene and follow the surgeon’s instructions for long-term success and optimal results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific procedure you are recommending for me and why is it necessary?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  5. How many times have you performed this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  6. Will I need to follow any special diet or restrictions before or after the surgery?
  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  8. Will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery or is it outpatient?
  9. How much pain or discomfort should I expect during and after the surgery?
  10. What should I do if I have any concerns or questions before or after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Perciaccante VJ, Cunningham LL Jr. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2022 Nov;34(4):521-528. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2022.03.011. Epub 2022 Oct 9. PMID: 36224072