Maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation: a survey on head and neck Surgeon's attitude and opinion.

Tongya Ravish R; DugadJinesh A

Volume : VIII, Issue : X, October - 2018

Maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation: a survey on head and neck Surgeon's attitude and opinion.

Tongya Ravish R, Dugadjinesh A

Abstract :

Statement of problem: Maxillofacial prosthodontist (MFP) plays an important role in rehabilitation of patients with oral malignancies. There services and involvement in hospital setups seems to be very limited.

Purpose:To assess the opinion and attitude of an oncosurgeons towards “Maxillofacial Prosthodontics” as a profession. To assess current awareness of dental implant therapy in rehabilitation of head and neck cancer patients.

Material and Methods: Eighty head and neck oncosurgeons across the country were surveyed, who practiced in different hospitals and private setup. Self–administered, close ended type questionnaire was faicated to collect the information regarding their professional experience, involvement of MFP in their practice and use of dental implants for rehabilitation after radiotherapy. The data were imported into the SPSS software and analyzed using frequencies test.

Results: Out of 80 participants 50 % were Oral surgeons, 40 % general surgeons and 10% ENT. 13% surgeons say that their decision to reconstruct is determined by availability of prosthetic rehabilitation services. Twenty of them do not have access to a consultant in MFP. (45%) of surgeons involves MFP before surgery (6.25%) after surgery and (5%) follow–up visits.

60 surgeons out of 80 do not use implant therapy after radiotherapy.

Conclusions:

There seems to be lack of involvement of MFP due to availability, efficiency and inadequate hospital setup. Awareness of oncosurgeons about dental implant therapy seems to be lacking.

Title of the article: Maxillofacial prosthodontic rehabilitation: a survey on head and neck Surgeon’s attitude and opinion