Oral health-related quality of life changes following third molar surgery in a Jordanian population: effect of demographic and clinical factors on the immediate postoperative period

This study aimed to evaluate oral health-related quality of life [OHRQOL] changes following third molar surgery, and investigate demographic and clinical variables' effect on [OHRQOL] in the first postoperative week. 45 subjects had surgical removal of lower third molar/s by one surgeonat Jordan University hospital from March 2011 to November 2011, following a standardized protocol. Patients' demographics and clinical data were recorded. [OHRQOL] was evaluated before surgery using the Oral Health Impact Profile [OHIP]-14. On postoperative days [PD] 1, 3, 5 and 7, patients completed the [OHIP]-14 and the condition-specific [HRQOL] instrument. A significant deterioration in OHRQOL was seen on [PD]1[P=0.000], and [PD]3 [P=0.000], except for psychological discomfort and disability domains. On [PD]5, no difference was found, however, females had significantly lower OHRQOL levels than males on [OHIP]-14 [P=0.008] and the domains: physical [P=0.048], psychological [P=0.016] and social disability[P=0.018]. Third molar surgery was associated with deterioration in patients' OHRQOL on the first three postoperative days. Females had a slower recovery, with no effect of other factors on patients' recovery pattern

Dental students' perception of theater-based learning as an interactive educational tool in teaching oral surgery in Jordan

To evaluate dental students' perception of theater-based learning, and explore its association with their clinical knowledge and future career decisions. This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Oral Surgery Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan between September 2007 and March 2008 on dental students of batch 2005-2007 comprising 157 students and graduates. Seventy-two subjects were exposed to theater-based learning [group 1], and 85 subjects had conventional oral surgery teaching [group 2]. All subjects completed a questionnaire consisting of 23 skills and competencies with 2 career-related items. Students with theater experience perceived better ability to describe surgical procedures [71% of students in group 1 reported "adequate" or higher levels compared to 38% as reported by group 2 students, more understanding of theater and cross infection control protocols and teamwork value [96% in group 1 responded "adequate" or higher, 81% by group 2 students], higher competence to deal with complications [94% in group 1 responded "adequate" and 82% by group 2 students], more awareness of resident's duties and more familiarity with hospital environment [88% in group 1 and 71% by group 2 students] [p=0.000]. They showed more interest in oral surgery as a career [53% of group 1 responded "certain", 33% by group 2 students] [p=0.007]. Alpha reliability scores of 0.50-0.90 were obtained for the questionnaire subscales. Dental students perceived theater-based learning as a valid interactive educational tool. Active integration of dental students can lead to a superior educational experience, and promotes postgraduate surgical programs

Factors affecting satisfaction of patients after orthognathic surgery at a university hospital

To analyze factors that influence patient's satisfaction with orthognathic treatment and evaluate patient's perception of changes in physical and psychosocial aspects. In a retrospective clinical study conducted at Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan between December 2006 and December 2007, we examined 38 patients who had orthognathic surgery after an average follow-up of 20 months. Examination included evaluation of nerve function and temporomandibular function with Helkimo index. Patients filled out a questionnaire on treatment satisfaction, and perception of physical and psychosocial changes after treatment. Patients were generally satisfied with the result, 82% agreed they would undergo treatment again. They were divided into very satisfied n=25 and less satisfied n=13 groups according to satisfaction score, with statistically significant differences found between them concerning diagnosis, and follow-up period, with all vertical maxillary excess patients very satisfied and 75% of asymmetrical deformities patients less satisfied, and less satisfaction by patients more than one year postoperatively p=0.006. Patients perceived improvement in oral function, general health, appearance and interpersonal skills. Lower rates of joint and muscular pain, and increased mobility of lower jaw correlated with better patients' perception of health and appearance. Although patients' report high satisfaction levels, several factors such as the temporomandibular joint function could affect patients' psychosocial adjustment after treatment. Sufficient information for patients on the treatment course is required to improve satisfaction. Controlling these factors could improve patients' quality of life

treatment of masseter hypertrophy with botulinum toxin type A

Masseter hypertrophy is a benign condition with variable causative factors, such as bruxism, temporomandibular disorders, malocclusion and others, but has an unclear etiology in the majority of cases. Surgical masseteric resection was the conventional method of treatment for the asymmetric swellings over the ramus and angle of the mandible on one or both sides, in addition to the generally unsuccessful treatments of occlusal adjustment, splint therapy, tranquilizers or others. An effective alternative was the local injection of very small doses of botulinum toxin type A into the masseter. The toxin binds permanently to the motor end plate preventing acetylcholine release causing pre-synaptic neuromuscular blockade, the muscle can be selectively weakened and local paralysis is followed by atrophy of the muscle. Four cases with their follow-up are reported. This technique provided a predictable and conservative method of treatment for this type of facial asymmetry