Our Summary

This study aimed to find out if machine learning (a type of artificial intelligence where machines learn from data to make predictions or decisions) could accurately predict when a medication order would be cancelled for patients who had oral and maxillofacial surgery. The researchers used patient data such as age, gender, health conditions, surgical procedures, vital signs, lab results, and medication orders.

They used four different machine learning methods: Gradient Boosted Decision Trees, Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Naïve Bayes. All these methods were trained, tested, and checked for their accuracy in predicting cancelled medication orders.

The study used data from 37,493 medication orders from 1,204 patients over 5 years. Out of these, 3,892 (10.4%) were cancelled.

The machine learning method that performed the best was Gradient Boosted Decision Trees. It had a good level of accuracy in predicting cancelled medication orders for these patients.

This study could help to improve the efficiency of medication ordering in hospitals and potentially reduce instances of unnecessary or incorrect medication orders.

FAQs

  1. What was the goal of the study on the use of machine learning in oral and maxillofacial surgery?
  2. Which machine learning method was found to be most accurate in predicting cancelled medication orders?
  3. How might the findings of this study improve the efficiency of medication ordering in hospitals?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include fasting before surgery, avoiding certain medications, and stopping smoking if applicable. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for oral surgery include those with impacted teeth, misaligned jaws, oral cancer, facial trauma, jaw joint disorders, and other conditions that require surgical intervention in the mouth, jaw, or facial region. These patients may experience pain, difficulty chewing or swallowing, speech problems, or other issues that impact their overall quality of life. Oral surgery can help to alleviate these symptoms and improve oral health and function.

Timeline

Before oral surgery:

  1. Patient is referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon by their dentist or physician.
  2. Patient undergoes a pre-operative consultation with the surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, and anesthesia options.
  3. Patient may undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work or imaging studies.
  4. Patient is instructed to stop eating or drinking for a certain period of time before the surgery.
  5. Patient arrives at the surgical center or hospital on the day of the surgery and is prepared for the procedure.

After oral surgery:

  1. Patient wakes up from anesthesia in the recovery room.
  2. Patient is monitored for any complications or adverse reactions to the anesthesia.
  3. Patient is given pain medication and instructions on post-operative care.
  4. Patient may experience swelling, bleeding, and pain in the days following the surgery.
  5. Patient follows up with the surgeon for a post-operative appointment to check on healing and remove any sutures.
  6. Patient may need to follow a soft diet and avoid certain activities while they recover.
  7. Patient gradually resumes normal activities as they heal.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about oral surgery include:

  1. What specific oral surgery procedure do I need and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to ensure a smooth recovery?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and are there any risks associated with it?
  5. Will I need to stop taking any medications or supplements before the surgery?
  6. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  7. What follow-up appointments will I need after the surgery?
  8. Are there any specific dietary restrictions I should follow before or after the surgery?
  9. What are the potential long-term effects of this surgery on my oral health?
  10. Can you explain the process of medication ordering for my surgery and how it will be managed?

Reference

Authors: Nathan JM, Arce K, Herasevich V. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2024 Sep;28(3):1375-1381. doi: 10.1007/s10006-024-01267-6. Epub 2024 Jun 19. PMID: 38896164