Saving lives and restoring hope: Enhancing outcomes through comprehensive understanding of maxillofacial surgery in disaster medicine.

This article delves into the profound impact of various types of disasters, examining some specific contexts. It provides insights into the unique challenges posed by different disasters, ultimately highlighting the invaluable role of maxillofacial surgery in addressing the critical healthcare needs of affected populations. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to analyze the role of maxillofacial surgery in disaster management. Relevant studies were examined to gather evidence supporting the criticality of maxillofacial surgeons in disaster response. Continuous training, coordination, and international collaboration among maxillofacial surgeons were reported as key factors in enhancing preparedness and improving post-disaster recovery. Sharing experiences, implementing best practices, and staying updated with advancements in the field seemed crucial for maximizing the impact of maxillofacial surgery in disaster medicine. By prioritizing the inclusion of maxillofacial surgeons in disaster response teams, lives can be saved, functional outcomes can be improved, and hope can be restored in affected communities. Understanding the intricacies and patterns associated with various types of disasters can be crucial details for successful rescue operations.

Periodontists and oral surgeons' peri-implantitis-related education, knowledge, attitudes, and professional behavior: A national survey.

OBJECTIVES: Each year, approximately 5 million dental implants are placed in the United States and one out of three patients is likely to experience peri-implantitis (PI). The objectives were to compare the PI-related education, knowledge, attitudes, and professional behavior of periodontists and oral maxillofacial surgeons (OMS), and to explore relationships between these constructs of interest. METHODS: A total of 389 periodontists and 161 OMS responded to a web-based survey. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses (independent sample t-tests, chi-square tests, and correlational analyses) were conducted. RESULTS: On average, periodontists reported a higher percentage of time spent in residency on implant surgery (21.02% vs. 7.27%; p < 0.001), better education about PI (5-point scale with 1 = not at all well: means: 2.86 vs. 2.59; p < 0.001), and better knowledge of risk factors (4.07 vs. 3.86; p < 0.001) than OMS. Periodontists argued that oral hygiene-related treatment (4.45 vs. 4.22; p = 0.001) and regeneration-focused treatments such as guided tissue regeneration (3.62 vs. 3.20; p < 0.001) contributed more to successfully treating PI and used these treatments more in their practices (4.86 vs. 4.56; p < 0.001/3.06 vs. 2.68; p < 0.001) than OMS. They also considered PI as a more serious problem than OMS (4.55 vs. 3.80; p < 0.001). The better the respondents' PI-related knowledge was, the more they considered PI as a serious problem (r = 0.19; p < 0.001). The more cases they treated per month, the more they considered PI as a serious problem (r = 0.19; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study highlight the lack of standardization in the specialty training of periodontists and OMS. Best practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PI are needed to optimize graduate education about this important topic.

Risk of complications in panfacial bone fracture according to surgeons: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Panfacial bone fractures pose intricate challenges because of severe fragmentation and the loss of landmarks. Surgeons use a variety of reduction techniques, including bottom-up and top-down approaches. This single proportional meta-analysis explores sequencing differences and complications between oral and maxillofacial surgery surgeons (OMSs) and plastic and reconstructive surgeons (PRSs) in treating panfacial bone fractures. METHODS: The PubMed and Scopus databases were searched systematically, and we compiled 14 studies published between 2007 and 2023 involving 1238 patients. A systematic review of the included studies was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, and data on the reduction techniques; total complication rates; and rates of malocclusion, enophthalmos, infection, asymmetry, and esthetic complications were collected. RESULTS: The bottom-up technique was the most prevalent for both types of surgeons (57.1%, 8 out of 14). Malocclusion rates (I2 = 0% for OMSs and 41% for PRSs) were similar between the groups (p = 0.72), but PRSs tended to have a lower enophthalmos rate (I2 = 0% for OMSs and 32% for PRSs) than OMSs (p < 0.01). Infection rates remained consistent across all studies. However, high heterogeneity was observed for the total complication rate (I2 = 94% for OMSs and 85% for PRSs) and asymmetry and esthetic complications (I2 = 88% for OMSs and 92% for PRSs), making direct comparison between the two groups inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the differences in surgical techniques and levels of interest have a greater impact on the outcomes of the panfacial bone fracture than the surgeon's specialty. However, more in-depth studies are needed to accurately pinpoint panfacial bone fracture reduction trends and differences in postoperative complications in the two expert groups.

Microbiological profile and antibiotic sensitivity of maxillofacial infections in an emergency hospital

Aim: To investigate the bacteriological profile of oral and maxillofacial infections and the pattern of sensitivity to a specific group of antibiotics in a reference emergency hospital in Brazil. Methods: This is a prospective cohort institutional study that studied patients affected by oral and/ or maxillofacial infections in a Brazilian emergency hospital, over a 12-month period, of different etiologies, through data collection, culture and antibiogram tests, and monitoring of the process of resolution of the infectious condition. The variables were analyzed using the chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests, using a significance level of 5%. Results: The sample consisted of 61 patients, 62.3% male. The mean age of participants was 34.3 years. Odontogenic infection was the most frequent etiology and the submandibular space was the most affected. The bacterial species Streptococcus viridans was isolated in 21.6% of cases. Levofloxacin, vancomycin and penicillin were the antibiotics with the highest frequency of bacterial sensitivity, while clindamycin and erythromycin showed the highest percentages of resistance. Conclusions: The results suggest that, among the most used antibiotics for the treatment of these infections, penicillin remains an excellent option of choice for empirical therapy

The perception and practice of routine lingual flap retraction in lower third molar surgery among oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Nigeria.

Background: Lingual nerve injury is a known complication of mandibular third molar (M3M) surgery, and retraction of the lingual flap is reported to reduce the incidence of this complication. However, there is no global consensus on the routine retraction of lingual flap. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the perception and practice of lingual flap retraction amongst oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional national survey was conducted amongst 122 oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Nigeria from January 2023 to March 2023 using a validated, structured, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire had three sections and 14-item questions. Section A consists of the sociodemographic questions, Section B comprises questions on perception towards lingual flap retraction, whereas Section C consists of questions on the practice of lingual flap retraction. These questionnaires were deployed as an online survey and as hard copies. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analysed. A critical probability level (P < 0.05) was used as the cut-off level for statistical significance. Results: Most of the participants (47.6%) belong to the age group of 31-40 years. The male-to-female ratio was 6:1. Only 12 (9.8%) participants had a positive perception towards routine lingual flap retractions following M3M surgery. Perception of lingual flap retraction was found not to be associated with the demographic variables of the participants (P > 0.05). A total of 95 participants (77.9%) did not raise nor retract the lingual flap during lower third molar surgery. The rate of practice of lingual flap retraction during third molar surgery was not influenced by any of the factors studied (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The majority of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Nigeria do not agree that routine retraction of the lingual flap is necessary to reduce lingual nerve injury and majority, too, do not practice this in their management of impacted lower third molar.

The Facial Osteoplasty for Polyostotic Fibrous Dysplasia in a Patient With McCune-Albright Syndrome: A Case Report.

Fibrous dysplasia is a developmental anomaly that affects bone maturation and remodeling, generating replacement of medullary and cortical bone by a disorganized and immature fibro-osseous matrix, which makes the sufferer susceptible to bone pain, skeletal deformities, and pathological fractures. This is a condition that, when associated with cutaneous hyperpigmentation and endocrinological disorders, forms the classic triad of McCune-Albright syndrome, a rare multisystemic pathology formed by postzygotic somatic mutations of the GNAS gene. Fibrous dysplasia can even cause loss of vision, hearing, or difficulty breathing. The severity of these manifestations is associated with the type of treatment, which can be conservative or surgical. The surgical approach is adapted to each particularity and it aims mainly to resolve functional restrictions or correct aesthetic deformities through bone plasty. The present work aims to report the case of a McCune-Albright syndrome patient with deforming craniofacial fibrous dysplasia that triggers respiratory compromise. After clinical and tomographic evaluation, it was decided to remove and reshape the bone affected in the maxilla through the Weber-Ferguson approach and the mandible through the modified Newman approach. The case progressed satisfactorily, with an improvement in the respiratory condition and a reduction in facial asymmetry.

Perceptions of mandibular asymmetry among orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and laypersons.

Background: Facial asymmetry is one reason orthodontic patients seek treatment. This study assessed the effect of mandibular asymmetry on facial esthetics and treatment needs perceived by laypersons, orthodontists, and maxillofacial surgeons. Materials and Method: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, the frontal image of a model was captured and symmetrized from the facial midline using Adobe Photoshop software. The mandible was rotated 0°-8° with 1° intervals. Images were presented to 41 laypersons, 39 orthodontists, and 29 surgeons using an online questionnaire. The observers rated each image's esthetics with a 0-100 Visual Analog Scale and determined their treatment need by choosing one of the following three choices: No need for treatment, needs treatment, acceptable, but better to be treated. Analysis of variance for repeated measurements model. The regression method, Kruskal-Wallis analysis, was used for statistical analysis and the level of significance was set as P < 0.05. Results: The images with 0° and 1° rotation received the highest esthetic rates among all three groups, while the images with 8° rotation were the least attractive ones. Furthermore, the image esthetic ratings significantly affected their treatment need. Mandibular asymmetry diagnosis threshold was 1° for orthodontists, and 3° for both laypersons and surgeons. The treatment need threshold was 5°, 6°, and 7° for surgeons, orthodontists, and laypersons, respectively. Conclusion: The esthetics of images decreased when mandibular asymmetry increased. Treatment need was also related to increased asymmetry. Orthodontists were the most sensitive group in diagnosis, while surgeons were the most sensitive ones when it came to treatment.

Liga Acadêmica de Cirurgia e Traumatologia Buco-maxilo-facial: um relato de experiência / Academic League of Oral and Maxillo-facial Surgery and Traumatology: an experience report / Liga Académica de Cirugía y Traumatología Oral y Maxilofacial: un relato de experiencia

A Cirurgia e Traumatologia Buco-Maxilo-Facial (CTBMF) é uma especialidade da Odontologia que tem como objetivo o diagnóstico e o tratamento das doenças, traumatismos, lesões e anomalias, congênitas e adquiridas, do aparelho mastigatório e anexos, e estruturas crânio-faciais associadas. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, tipo relato de experiência, realizado a partir das vivências dos alunos envolvidos no projeto. O projeto promove discussões sobre agravos de saúde comuns na comunidade via palestras nos ambulatórios de cirurgia da FOP/UPE, atua através de postagens nas redes sociais sobre temas de grande importância em cirurgia bucal e de reuniões com aulas ministradas que provêm fundamentação teórica para capacitação dos alunos. Resultados: Desde sua fundação, a LABMF promove ações ambulatoriais para promover troca de conhecimentos sobre a CTBMF, desmistificar e instruir a população sobre exodontias e a importância do autoexame bucal. Atua com mutirões para atender a população em espera, e promove encontros científicos, proporcionando integração com outras faculdades. Conclusão: O projeto proporciona ao aluno a oportunidade de aprofundar seus conhecimentos em CTBMF e a desenvolver e aprimorar competências relacionadas à educação em saúde, liderança, comunicação, e outros. Ainda, provém retorno à população geral, repassando informações e conhecimentos pertinentes à sua saúde, tornando-os multiplicadores do saber... (AU)

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Traumatology (CTBMF) is a specialty of Dentistry that aims to diagnose and treat diseases, traumas, injuries, and anomalies, congenital and acquired, of the masticatory system and appendages, and craniofacial structures associated. Methodology: Descriptive study, experience report type, carried out based on the experiences of the students involved in the project. The project promotes discussions about common health problems in the community via lectures at the FOP/UPE surgery outpatient clinics, works through posts on social media on topics of great importance in oral surgery, and meetings with classes taught that provide theoretical foundations for training professionals. students. Results: Since its foundation, LABMF has promoted outpatient actions to promote the exchange of knowledge about CTBMF, demystify and educate the population about extractions and the importance of oral self-examination. It works with joint efforts to assist the waiting population and promotes scientific meetings, providing integration with other faculties. Conclusion: The project provides students with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in CTBMF and to develop and improve skills related to health education, leadership, communication, and others. Furthermore, it provides feedback to the general population, passing on information and knowledge relevant to their health, making them multipliers of knowledge... (AU)

La Cirugía y Traumatología Oral y Maxilofacial (CTBMF) es una especialidad de la Odontología que tiene como objetivo diagnosticar y tratar enfermedades, traumatismos, lesiones y anomalías, congénitas y adquiridas, del sistema masticatorio y apéndices, y estructuras craneofaciales asociadas. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, tipo relato de experiencia, realizado a partir de las vivencias de los estudiantes involucrados en el proyecto. El proyecto promueve discusiones sobre problemas de salud comunes en la comunidad a través de charlas en los ambulatorios de cirugía de la FOP/ UPE, trabaja a través de publicaciones en redes sociales sobre temas de gran importancia en cirugía bucal y encuentros con clases impartidas que brindan fundamentos teóricos a la formación de profesionales. Resultados: Desde su fundación, LABMF ha impulsado acciones ambulatorias para promover el intercambio de conocimientos sobre el CTBMF, desmitificar y educar a la población sobre las extracciones y la importancia del autoexamen bucal. Trabaja en conjunto para atender a la población en espera y promueve encuentros científicos, brindando integración con otras facultades. Conclusión: El proyecto brinda a los estudiantes la oportunidad de profundizar sus conocimientos en CTBMF, y desarrollar y mejorar habilidades relacionadas con la educación para la salud, el liderazgo, la comunicación y otros. Además, retroalimenta a la población en general, transmitiéndole información y conocimientos relevantes para su salud, convirtiéndola en multiplicadora de conocimientos... (AU)

Frequency and Difficulty in the Usage of Face Shields Among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons During the COVID-19 Era: An Online Survey.

Aim: During the COVID-19 era, personal protective equipment (PPE) has become a necessary part of surgeons' routines, and face shields are considered an additional barrier to prevent disease transmission via aerosols. This study aimed to evaluate how often oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS) use face shields and the challenges they face while using them. Methods: An online survey consisting of fourteen questions was distributed to OMFS, and the responses were collected and analyzed using the chi-square test to determine any associations between categorical variables. A P-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of the 310 OMFS who responded to the survey (181 males, 129 females, 235 residents, 10 fellows, and 65 practitioners), 42.9% (133/310) and 39.4% (122/310) reported using face shields for minor and major surgical procedures, respectively. The majority of the respondents (74.1%, 230/310) reported decreased efficiency while using a face shield. Reasons for non-compliance included vision-related issues, headache, difficulties with disinfection, and ergonomic factors. Conclusion: Based on the survey results, the regular use of face shields by OMFS was less frequent, and almost three-fourths of the surgeons found it challenging to use due to various reasons. The reduced compliance with face shield usage highlights the need for more ergonomic face shields to improve compliance.

Oral maxillofacial surgery resident, faculty and practitioner role models and dental students' interest in oral maxillofacial surgery careers: Does gender matter?

PURPOSE: Residency programs in oral maxillofacial surgery (OMS) have the lowest percentage (2020: 18.4%) of female graduates among all dental specialty programs. When considering this underrepresentation of female OMS residents, prior studies have not examined how OMS role models might shape dental students' interest in OMS careers. The objectives were to assess female versus male students' OMS-related career motivation, their experiences/attitudes toward three groups of OMS role models (i.e., OMS residents, faculty, and practitioners), and relationships between role model-related experiences/attitudes and career motivation. METHODS: 363 female and 335 male students from 14 United States and two Canadian dental schools participated in this cross-sectional study by responding to an online survey. RESULTS: 13.8% of female and 26% of male respondents (p < 0.001) were much/very much interested in OMS careers. More male than female students had shadowed an OMS in an office setting (43.4% vs. 35.1%; p < 0.05). The groups did not differ in their motivation to learn more and earlier about OMS nor in the quantity of OMS-related experiences prior to and during dental school. However, male students were more satisfied with the quality of these experiences (5-point scale with 5 = most positive: Means: 3.76 vs. 3.53; p < 0.05), were more comfortable approaching/working with OMS instructors (3.51 vs. 3.19; p < 0.01) and reported to have learned more from residents (3.52 vs. 3.31; p < 0.05) and faculty (3.75 vs. 3.45; p < 0.01) than female students. Female students agreed less that OMS residents, faculty, and practitioners encouraged students to pursue OMS (3.27 vs. 3.44; p < 0.01 / 3.46 vs. 3.63; p < 0.01 / 3.45 vs. 3.61; p < 0.01). Role model-related experiences and attitudes correlated with an interest in an OMS career. CONCLUSIONS: The two groups do not differ in the quantity of most OMS experiences before and during dental school and their motivation to learn more and earlier about OMS. However, female students' less positive OMS-related educational experiences and less positive attitudes toward role models correlate with a lower interest in OMS careers.

The Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques of Toulouse: Oldest Dental Site still in Activity?

The Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques of Toulouse (in Southwest France) is an ancient hospital officially existing since the 16th century and initially dedicated to the treatment of the poor and the destitute. In the 18th century, it became a hospital in the "modern" sense of the word, by maintaining health and trying to cure diseases. The first official traces of professional dental care in the Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques by a dental surgeon date from 1780. From this period, the Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques had a dentist to treat "paupers" in the early years. The first "officially" recorded dentist was named Pierre Delga, known for having treated the French Queen Marie-Antoinette for a difficult extraction. Delga also provided dental care to the famous French writer and philosopher Voltaire. The aim of this article is to relate the history of this hospital along with French dentistry, and to advance the hypothesis that the Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques, now a hospital site of the Toulouse University Hospital, is probably the oldest building in Europe still in activity and still hosting a dentistry department.

A mixed reality-based navigation method for dental implant navigation method: A pilot study.

This in vitro study aimed to put forward the development and investigation of a novel Mixed Reality (MR)-based dental implant navigation method and evaluate implant accuracy. Data were collected using 3D-cone beam computed tomography. The MR-based navigation system included a Hololens headset, an NDI (Northern Digital Inc.) Polaris optical tracking system, and a computer. A software system was developed. Resin models of dentition defects were created for a randomized comparison study with the MR-based navigation implantation system (MR group, n = 25) and the conventional free-hand approach (FH group, n = 25). Implant surgery on the models was completed by an oral surgeon. The precision and feasibility of the MR-based navigation method in dental implant surgery were assessed and evaluated by calculating the entry deviation, middle deviation, apex deviation, and angular deviation values of the implant. The system, including both the hardware and software, for the MR-based dental implant navigation method were successfully developed and a workflow of the method was established. Three-Dimensional (3D) reconstruction and visualization of the surgical instruments, dentition, and jawbone were achieved. Real-time tracking of implant tools and jaw model, holographic display via the MR headset, surgical guidance, and visualization of the intraoperative implant trajectory deviation from the planned trajectory were captured by our system. The MR-based navigation system was with better precise than the free-hand approach for entry deviation (MR: 0.6914 ± 0.2507 mm, FH: 1.571 ± 0.5004 mm, P = 0.000), middle deviation (MR: 0.7156 ± 0.2127 mm, FH: 1.170 ± 0.3448 mm, P = 0.000), apex deviation (MR: 0.7869 ± 0.2298 mm, FH: 0.9190 ± 0.3319 mm, P = 0.1082), and angular deviation (MR: 1.849 ± 0.6120°, FH: 4.933 ± 1.650°, P = 0.000).

Traumatic brain injuries and maxillofacial fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) associated with maxillofacial fractures (MFFs) are a public health concern worldwide, especially among adult-aged males. There is an urgent need for early detection of associated TBIs in patients with MFFs during the initial assessment and treatment stage to reduce morbidity and mortality. The objective of the present study was to systematically review the literature to determine specific MFF situations associated with TBIs and to identify the factors associated with TBIs in patients with MFFs. The protocol was developed in accord with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) and was registered to the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under the registration number CRD42020155912. Overall, of 26,774 patients recorded, 13,667 patients (51.04%) sustained MFFs with an associated TBI. The male to female ratio was 4.8:1. RTA was the most common cause. The most common TBIs were concussions, contusions, and closed brain injuries. Within the limits of this study, it was concluded that TBI-related MFFs should be suspected whenever maxillary or mandibular bone fractures occur, especially among adults, males, and people with injuries caused by RTAs and assaults. There is a need to increase the awareness of maxillofacial surgeons on the possible associations of combined maxillofacial trauma and brain injuries.

Oral and maxillofacial trauma in women assaulted by men: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Violence against women represents an urgent public health problem and has been an increasingly important topic in society's discussions and concerns. Although studies report a high prevalence of injuries to the face and head of women victims of intentional violence, this physical damage has never been investigated by grouped studies. Thus, the objective of this systematic review was to research the characteristics and the overall prevalence of oral-maxillofacial trauma in women victims of physical violence caused by men. METHODS: Searches were carried out on Medline (via PubMed) and Lilacs (via Virtual Health Library) and on gray literature until June 16, 2020 (updated on February 12, 2021) without restriction on the year of publication or language. RESULTS: A total of 27 studies involving 9,318 women victims of aggression by men and 3,738 oral-maxillofacial traumas were included. The prevalence of oral-maxillofacial trauma among all injuries in women was 51% (95% CI 28% - 74%). There was no significant difference in the chance of occurrence between soft tissue injuries (bruises, lacerations, abrasions, edema, erythema, and epistaxis) and hard tissue injuries (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 0.43 - 4.80). The relationship between the victims and the aggressors was mainly that of intimate partners and relatives. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the need for political and ethical reflection to prevent oral-maxillofacial trauma and ensure women's health and human rights.

Opioid prescribing by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the United States, 2016-2019.

OBJECTIVE: To describe opioid prescribing trends among oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS). METHODS: Prescriptions by OMFS were identified from IQVIA Longitudinal Prescription Dataset, 2016-2019. OMFS-based, patient-based and population-based prescribing rates and changes in high-risk opioid prescribing were calculated annually. We used linear regression to describe trends. RESULTS: There were 13.9 million opioid prescriptions among 12.5 million patients (627 prescriptions/OMFS/year). Hydrocodone and oxycodone decreased by 20.9% and 39.2% (p < 0.05), while tramadol and codeine increased by 24.3% and 6.1% (p < 0.05), respectively. Opioid prescribing rates significantly decreased by 27 prescriptions/OMFS/year, 18.6 patients/OMFS/year and by 0.9 prescriptions/100,000 population/year (p < 0.05 for all). From 2016 to 2019, the proportion of opioids >3 days decreased by 54.2% (p < 0.05) and prescriptions ≥50 MME/day decreased by 66.3% (p < 0.05). Although the number of opioid prescriptions by OMFS decreased in most states, 12% of states experienced increases. CONCLUSION: Opioid prescribing, especially high-risk prescribing, by OMFS has decreased. However, targeted interventions are warranted in some areas.

Can CBCT change the level of confidence of oral maxillofacial surgeons in mandibular third molar management?

Abstract This study analyzed the impact of CBCT on the level of confidence in diagnostic and treatment thinking in mandibular lower molar (M3M) clinical management. Thirty cases for which panoramic radiographs and CBTC images were available were selected and classified according to radiologic signs indicating the proximity of the M3M to the mandibular canal (interruption of the radiopaque borders of the canal of the mandibular canal wall, darkening of the roots, and diversion or narrowing of the canal, n = 10 for each classification). Twelve oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) contributed to this study by answering two questionnaires. The first questionnaire contained a clinical description of the case and a panoramic radiograph. After 30 days, a second questionnaire with the same clinical illustrations and tomographic multiplanar reconstruction images was administered. Both questionnaires asked specialists to rate diagnostic confidence, the surgical complexity, chosen treatment, and surgical confidence. In approximately 40% of answers, CBCT images had a positive impact on ratings of diagnostic confidence and treatment thinking confidence, and in 24.4%, they increased the surgical complexity score. There was no change in the treatment plan following the use of CBCT, but the CBCT examination was a determining factor for diagnosis and treatment planning in 72.8% of the answers CBCT improved the confidence level in diagnostic and treatment thinking of the M3M management while also increasing the perceived level of surgical complexity. The findings of this study support the need to consider using CBCT in diagnosis and treatment planning for M3Ms with radiographic signs such as darkening of the roots, interruption of the radiopaque borders of the mandibular canal, or deviation of the mandibular canal and narrowing of the roots.

Percepção e conduta dos cirurgiões dentistas da área de cirurgia e traumatologia bucomaxilofaciais frente à pandemia de COVID-19 / Perception and conduct of oral and maxillofacial traumatology surgeons towards the Covid-19 pandemic

A infecção pelo novo Coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2), caracterizada por um conjunto de alterações que podem evoluir para síndrome respiratória aguda grave, teve início na China, no final de 2019, sendo assim denominada de doença pelo coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19). Além de danos físicos, que em alguns casos leva à morte, a COVID-19 tem impactado na forma de atuação de diversos profissionais de saúde em relação a sua conduta com os pacientes. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a percepção e conduta dos Cirurgiões Dentistas da área de Cirurgia e Traumatologia Bucomaxilofaciais frente à pandemia de Covid-19. Foi realizada uma entrevista semiestruturada de abordagem qualitativa com os profissionais atuantes desta especialidade, pertencentes a um grupo de aplicativo de mensagens (WhatsApp), para melhor compreensão da percepção relacionada à sua rotina odontológica durante a pandemia do COVID-19. Após a transcrição das falas, na íntegra, foi realizada a leitura criteriosa do material coletado seguido da análise de conteúdo, segundo a teoria helleriana em seu referencial teórico do cotidiano, para interpretar as memórias relatadas dos participantes. A amostra do estudo foi constituída por 9 especialistas, sendo 6 do sexo masculino com idade média de 34,8 anos e variando de 30 a 41 anos. Quatro temas foram identificados: percepção dos profissionais sobre a odontologia, biossegurança, impressões psicossociais dos profissionais e impacto no atendimento. O desconhecimento da doença e o medo de se contaminar durante o atendimento foram as principais causas de alterações no ritmo de trabalho. Houve um pensamento comum sobre aumento de barreiras de biossegurança e maior sensação de segurança. A necessidade de isolamento social para contenção do vírus determinou o afastamento, em grande parte, entre profissionais e seus familiares ocasionando altos níveis de ansiedade. Houve repetitivos relatos sobre lentidão e diminuição nos atendimentos com relação direta à perda financeira, agravando o estresse. Em conclusão, foi possível perceber que os profissionais desta especialidade tiveram suas vidas profissionais e pessoais afetadas em relação aos hábitos diários, convívio familiar e desgaste financeiro capazes de alterar de maneira impactante seus níveis de estresse e ansiedade.

Infection by the new Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), characterized by a set of changes that can progress to a severe acute respiratory syndrome, began in China in late 2019, thus being called coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19). In addition to physical damage that in some cases leads to death, COVID-19 has had an impact on the way many health professionals act and their conduct with patients. This study aimed to assess the perception and conduct of Dentists of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. A semi-structured interview with a qualitative approach was carried out with professionals working in this specialty belonging to a messaging application group (WhatsApp), to better understand the perception related to their dental routine during the COVID-19 pandemic. After transcribing the speeches in full, collected material was carefully read, followed by content analysis according to the Hellerian theory in its daily theoretical framework, to interpret the participants' reported memories. The study sample consisted of 9 specialists, 6 males with a mean age of 34.8 years and ranging from 30 to 41 years. Four themes were identified, such as professionals' perception of dentistry, biosafety, professionals' psychosocial impressions, and impact on care. The lack of knowledge about the disease and the fear of being contaminated during care were the main causes of changes in the work routine. There was common thinking about increasing biosafety barriers and a greater sense of security. The need for social isolation to contain the virus determined the distance, in large part, between professionals and their families, causing high levels of anxiety. Repetitive reports of slowness and decrease in attendance as a direct relationship of financial loss, aggravating stress. In conclusion, it was possible to notice that professionals in this specialty had their professional and personal lives affected concerning daily habits, family life, and financial strain, impacting their levels of stress and anxiety.