Our Summary

This study aimed to assess the confidence level of senior oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) residents in managing a certain type of jaw disorder called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. It also aimed to understand their experience with different invasive TMJ procedures during their training and how confident they feel in performing these procedures after finishing their residency.

To do this, the researchers designed a questionnaire and sent it to program directors of dental surgery training programs across the U.S., who then forwarded it to their senior residents. The survey asked about their confidence in assessing and managing patients with TMJ disorders, their experience with different invasive TMJ procedures, and whether they felt they had enough education and practical experience in managing TMJ disorders.

The response rate was 28%, with 56 people responding. Almost all of them (92.9%) reported that they had been taught non-surgical management of TMJ disorders. All respondents confirmed that invasive TMJ procedures were performed in their program. The most commonly performed procedure was TMJ arthrocentesis, followed by open TMJ surgery. The least-performed invasive surgical procedure was autogenous total TMJ replacement surgery. Eighty percent of residents reported being comfortable managing a patient with a TMJ disorder. The only procedure that they felt highly confident in performing was TMJ arthrocentesis.

The study concludes that the level of confidence in managing a patient with a TMJ disorder is directly related to the experience they had with invasive TMJ procedures during their residency. This could potentially impact how OMS surgeons practice in the future, particularly in terms of providing care for patients with TMJ disorders.

FAQs

  1. What was the main aim of the study conducted on senior oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) residents?
  2. What invasive TMJ procedures were most and least commonly performed according to the study?
  3. How does the confidence level of OMS residents in managing TMJ disorders relate to their experience with invasive TMJ procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery that it is important to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery. This may include guidelines on eating, drinking, medication, and oral hygiene. It is also important to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider before and after the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for oral surgery include those with impacted wisdom teeth, severe dental infections, facial trauma, misaligned jaws, cysts or tumors in the jaw, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, and severe periodontal disease. Additionally, patients who require dental implants or corrective jaw surgery may also be recommended for oral surgery.

Timeline

Before oral surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of a jaw disorder, such as pain, clicking or popping sounds, limited jaw movement, and difficulty chewing.
  2. Patient seeks consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for evaluation and diagnosis of the jaw disorder.
  3. Surgeon recommends different treatment options, including non-surgical management and invasive TMJ procedures.
  4. Patient and surgeon discuss the risks and benefits of the recommended procedure and decide on a treatment plan.
  5. Patient undergoes any necessary pre-operative tests and preparations before the scheduled surgery.

After oral surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the planned invasive TMJ procedure, such as TMJ arthrocentesis or open TMJ surgery.
  2. Patient is monitored closely by medical staff during the surgery and in the immediate post-operative period.
  3. Patient is provided with post-operative instructions for pain management, wound care, and diet restrictions.
  4. Patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any post-operative concerns.
  6. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and diet as advised by the surgeon.
  7. Patient experiences improvement in symptoms and jaw function over time as the surgical site heals and the jaw disorder is effectively managed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the oral surgery procedure?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this procedure?
  3. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  4. How many times have you performed this specific type of oral surgery procedure?
  5. What is your success rate with this procedure?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the possible side effects?
  7. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  8. How long will the effects of the oral surgery last?
  9. Are there any long-term considerations or potential future treatments I should be aware of?
  10. Can you provide me with any resources or information to help me better understand the procedure and what to expect?

Reference

Authors: Momin M, Miloro M, Mercuri LG, Munaretto A, Markiewicz MR. Journal: J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2017 Oct;75(10):2091.e1-2091.e10. doi: 10.1016/j.joms.2017.06.037. Epub 2017 Jun 30. PMID: 28734995