Our Summary
This research paper discusses the increasing frequency of complex oral surgeries being performed by both specialist and non-specialist doctors in primary care. The authors note that the medical field in the UK is becoming more prone to lawsuits, making it crucial for practitioners to prevent complaints and accusations of negligence. This requires a solid understanding of the risks involved in oral surgery and the ability to plan and perform treatments effectively and safely.
The paper emphasizes the importance of obtaining informed consent from patients before any procedure, a point highlighted by a recent legal case. It is essential for doctors to fully inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of a treatment, as well as know their own professional limits and when to refer a patient to a specialist.
The authors provide a step-by-step guide to managing risk in oral surgery, starting with an initial assessment of the patient’s medical and dental history. They discuss the need for additional tests to confirm a diagnosis, the process and legal implications of obtaining consent, and how to manage common complications that may arise during oral surgery. The paper serves as a comprehensive guide for doctors to ensure safety, legality, and effectiveness in their practice.
FAQs
- Why is it important for doctors to have a solid understanding of the risks involved in oral surgery?
- What is the process and legal implications of obtaining consent for oral surgery?
- What are some common complications that may arise during oral surgery and how can doctors manage them?
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, such as fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications. This will help reduce the risk of complications during and after the surgery. It is also important to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, such as taking prescribed medications, keeping the surgical site clean, and avoiding certain foods or activities that may interfere with healing. By following these instructions, patients can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.
Suitable For
Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include those with impacted wisdom teeth, severe dental infections, misaligned jaws, facial trauma, benign or malignant tumors in the mouth or jaw, obstructive sleep apnea, and temporomandibular joint disorders. Additionally, patients who require dental implants, bone grafts, or corrective jaw surgery may also be candidates for oral surgery.
It is important for patients to consult with their dentist or oral surgeon to determine if oral surgery is necessary for their specific condition. The decision to undergo oral surgery should be carefully considered based on the patient’s individual needs and the risks and benefits associated with the procedure. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or a compromised immune system, may need to take special precautions before undergoing oral surgery.
Overall, patients who are experiencing severe dental issues that cannot be addressed with conservative treatments may be recommended for oral surgery. It is important for patients to discuss their concerns and treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for their oral health.
Timeline
Before oral surgery:
- Patient consultation and assessment: The patient meets with the dentist or oral surgeon to discuss their medical and dental history, as well as the reason for the surgery.
- Pre-operative testing: Depending on the complexity of the surgery, the patient may undergo additional tests such as x-rays or blood work to confirm a diagnosis and ensure they are fit for surgery.
- Informed consent: The patient is fully informed about the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as any alternative treatment options. They must give their consent before the procedure can proceed.
During oral surgery:
- Anesthesia: The patient is administered anesthesia to numb the area or put them to sleep, depending on the type of surgery being performed.
- Surgery: The dentist or oral surgeon performs the necessary procedures, such as tooth extraction, implant placement, or jaw surgery.
- Monitoring: The patient’s vital signs are monitored throughout the surgery to ensure their safety.
After oral surgery:
- Recovery: The patient is monitored as they wake up from anesthesia and given instructions for post-operative care, including pain management and diet restrictions.
- Follow-up appointments: The patient may need to return for follow-up appointments to monitor their healing and remove sutures, if necessary.
- Long-term care: The patient may require additional treatments or follow-up surgeries to achieve the desired outcome, such as fitting a dental prosthesis or adjusting the position of dental implants.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about oral surgery may include:
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with the oral surgery procedure?
- What are the expected outcomes and recovery time for the surgery?
- Are there any alternative treatment options available?
- How many times have you performed this specific oral surgery procedure before?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
- What post-operative care instructions should I follow to ensure proper healing?
- How long will it take for me to fully recover and resume normal activities?
- Will I need any follow-up appointments after the surgery and what will they involve?
- Are there any specific dietary restrictions I should follow before or after the surgery?
- What should I do if I experience any unexpected symptoms or complications after the surgery?
Reference
Authors: Moore R, Miller R, Henderson S. Journal: Br Dent J. 2019 Dec;227(12):1035-1040. doi: 10.1038/s41415-019-0989-9. PMID: 31873258