Our Summary

This research paper is about how a special team in a hospital that deals with conditions affecting the head and face (craniofacial conditions) operates. The paper talks about the design, operations, and results of a new craniofacial team after its first year working in a public healthcare system. The team works in an outpatient clinic, meaning patients come for treatment and go home the same day, rather than staying in the hospital. The idea is that managing these conditions is best done by a specific team who focuses on this area, rather than by general hospital staff.

FAQs

  1. What is the ideal way to manage craniofacial conditions in a large general hospital?
  2. What is the purpose and design of the newly formed dedicated craniofacial multidisciplinary outpatients’ clinic?
  3. What were the outcomes of the craniofacial multidisciplinary outpatients’ clinic in its first year of operation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about craniofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions and medication protocols. This can help ensure the best possible outcome and reduce the risk of complications during and after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients typically recommended for craniofacial surgery include those with congenital craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, microtia, and craniofacial microsomia. Additionally, patients with acquired craniofacial conditions such as facial trauma, tumors, and craniofacial deformities resulting from previous surgeries may also benefit from craniofacial surgery. A multidisciplinary approach involving various specialists such as plastic surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, and orthodontists is often necessary to provide comprehensive care for these patients.

Timeline

Before Craniofacial Surgery:

  • Patient is referred to a craniofacial specialist by their primary care physician or another specialist.
  • Patient undergoes a series of consultations and evaluations with the craniofacial team to determine the best course of treatment.
  • A treatment plan is developed, which may include surgery, orthodontic treatment, speech therapy, and other interventions.
  • Pre-surgical testing and preparation is conducted, which may include imaging scans, blood tests, and consultations with other specialists.
  • Patient receives pre-operative instructions and education about the surgery and recovery process.

After Craniofacial Surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve bone reshaping, soft tissue reconstruction, and other techniques depending on the specific condition.
  • Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any complications or concerns.
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a period of time for recovery and pain management.
  • Patient receives post-operative care and follow-up appointments with the craniofacial team to monitor progress and address any issues.
  • Patient may require additional treatments or therapies to optimize the results of the surgery, such as physical therapy or speech therapy.
  • Patient continues to follow-up with the craniofacial team for long-term monitoring and support.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific craniofacial condition do I have and what are the treatment options available?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with craniofacial surgery?
  3. How experienced are you and your team in performing craniofacial surgeries?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this procedure?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that may be beneficial for my condition?
  6. Will I require additional surgeries or treatments in the future?
  7. How will this surgery impact my appearance and overall quality of life?
  8. What is the success rate for this type of surgery in patients with similar conditions?
  9. What kind of support or resources are available for me and my family during the treatment process?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing craniofacial surgery?

Reference

Authors: Foroglou P, Farmakis G, Antoniou A, Demiri E. Journal: Hell J Nucl Med. 2019 Sep-Dec;22 Suppl 2:28-33. PMID: 31802041