Our Summary

This research paper investigates whether people with liver cirrhosis, a disease that can reduce the liver’s ability to produce clotting factors, are at a higher risk of bleeding during dental surgery. The researchers looked at seven different studies, which included a wide range of participants, number of teeth extracted, and varying levels of platelet counts. They found that despite having lower numbers of platelets and a higher international normalized ratio (a measure of blood clotting), these patients had a low risk of bleeding. In the rare cases where bleeding did occur, it was usually manageable with local treatments to promote clotting. In simpler terms, despite having a disease that affects their blood’s ability to clot, these patients are not at a significant risk of bleeding during dental procedures.

FAQs

  1. Are people with liver cirrhosis at a higher risk of bleeding during dental surgery?
  2. How were the findings of the research paper determined?
  3. What measures can be taken if bleeding occurs during dental surgery for patients with liver cirrhosis?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing oral surgery to inform their dentist about any medical conditions they have, including liver cirrhosis, so that appropriate precautions can be taken. They may also recommend discussing any medications the patient is taking that could affect blood clotting, and to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to minimize the risk of bleeding. It is important for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare providers to ensure a safe and successful outcome from oral surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include:

  1. Patients with impacted wisdom teeth
  2. Patients with severe tooth decay or infection
  3. Patients with gum disease
  4. Patients needing dental implants
  5. Patients with facial trauma or injury
  6. Patients needing corrective jaw surgery
  7. Patients with oral cancer
  8. Patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  9. Patients needing bone grafting procedures
  10. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea

It is important for patients to consult with their dentist or oral surgeon to determine if oral surgery is necessary and appropriate for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before oral surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with their oral surgeon to discuss the procedure, anesthesia options, and any potential risks or complications. They may also undergo pre-operative testing, such as blood work or imaging scans, to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.

During the surgery, the patient will be administered anesthesia to numb the area or put them to sleep, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The surgeon will then perform the necessary dental work, such as tooth extraction or gum surgery.

After the surgery, the patient may experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding at the surgical site. They will be given post-operative care instructions, such as how to manage pain and swelling, what foods to avoid, and how to clean the surgical site. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after oral surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual’s overall health. Proper communication with the oral surgeon and following post-operative care instructions are essential for a successful recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific oral surgery procedure that I will be undergoing?
  2. How will the surgery be performed and what can I expect during the procedure?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  4. Will I need to stop taking any medications before the surgery, and if so, which ones?
  5. How long will the recovery process take and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  6. Will I need any follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions that I need to follow?
  8. What are the signs of potential complications that I should watch out for after the surgery?
  9. How soon can I resume my normal activities, including eating and brushing my teeth, after the surgery?
  10. Is there anything else I should know or consider before undergoing this oral surgery procedure?

Reference

Authors: de Oliveira Rech B, Rocha Tenório J, Bertoldi Franco J, Medina JB, Gallottini M, Pérez-Sayáns M, Ortega KL. Journal: J Am Dent Assoc. 2021 Jan;152(1):46-54.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.adaj.2020.09.018. Epub 2020 Nov 26. PMID: 33250169