Our Summary

This research paper is about how a surgeon’s skill in craniofacial surgery (surgery on the skull and face) improves with experience. The researchers looked at the results of 100 surgeries performed by one surgeon. They found that the surgeon got faster at preparing for and performing the surgery, and the amount of bleeding during the surgery decreased, as they gained experience. This improvement leveled off after about 40 to 60 surgeries. The researchers also noted that the surgeon’s work got better with the help of a well-functioning team of nurses and anesthesiologists. Therefore, the success of this type of surgery doesn’t just depend on the surgeon’s skill, but also on how well the whole team works together.

FAQs

  1. Does a surgeon’s skill in craniofacial surgery improve with experience?
  2. How does the performance of the surgical team impact the success of craniofacial surgery?
  3. After how many surgeries does the improvement in a surgeon’s skill in craniofacial surgery level off?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about craniofacial surgery is to ensure they choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who has performed a high volume of these procedures. This can improve the likelihood of a successful outcome and reduce the risk of complications. Additionally, it is important for the patient to follow all pre and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to optimize their recovery and results.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for craniofacial surgery include:

  1. Patients with craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, craniofacial microsomia, and other congenital deformities.
  2. Patients with facial trauma resulting from accidents or injuries.
  3. Patients with facial deformities or asymmetry due to tumors, infections, or other medical conditions.
  4. Patients with facial paralysis or nerve damage affecting facial muscles.
  5. Patients with severe facial aging or facial deformities due to previous surgeries.

Overall, craniofacial surgery is recommended for patients who require surgical correction or reconstruction of the skull, face, or jaw to improve function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

Timeline

Before craniofacial surgery:

  1. Initial consultation: The patient meets with the surgeon to discuss their medical history, concerns, and goals for the surgery.
  2. Pre-operative testing: The patient undergoes various tests such as blood work, imaging scans, and consultations with other specialists to ensure they are a good candidate for surgery.
  3. Surgical planning: The surgeon creates a personalized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and goals.
  4. Pre-operative instructions: The patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting guidelines and medication adjustments.
  5. Anesthesia: The patient is given anesthesia to keep them comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.

After craniofacial surgery:

  1. Recovery in the hospital: The patient stays in the hospital for a few days to recover from the surgery and receive care from the medical team.
  2. Post-operative monitoring: The patient is closely monitored for any complications or signs of infection.
  3. Pain management: The patient is given pain medication to help manage discomfort during the recovery process.
  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient has follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns.
  5. Rehabilitation: The patient may undergo physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation to help with healing and improve function.
  6. Long-term care: The patient continues to receive support from the medical team to ensure optimal healing and long-term outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How many craniofacial surgeries have you performed?
  2. What is your success rate with craniofacial surgeries?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with craniofacial surgery?
  4. What is the recovery process like after craniofacial surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition?
  6. How long will the surgery take and what is the expected outcome?
  7. Will I need any follow-up surgeries or additional treatments?
  8. How experienced is the rest of the surgical team that will be assisting with the procedure?
  9. What is the expected timeline for returning to normal activities after the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions I should follow to ensure the best outcome?

Reference

Authors: Sakamoto Y, Miwa T. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2022 May 1;33(3):794-796. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000008307. Epub 2021 Oct 21. PMID: 34690321