Exploring deep caries management and barriers to the use of vital pulp treatments by primary care dental practitioners.

AIM: The European Society of Endodontology outlines best practices for the management of deep caries and the pulp. Despite evidence supporting vital pulp treatments (VPTs) as predictable alternatives to conventional endodontic treatment, studies have shown they are not widely adopted in the UK. This study aimed to explore the barriers to implementation of VPTs by primary care general dental practitioners (GDPs). METHODOLOGY: Qualitative one-to-one semi-structured online interviews were conducted with purposively sampled UK GDPs. Interview transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Recurring themes were iteratively refined as additional transcripts were reviewed. RESULTS: Eleven participants were interviewed. A range of barriers to the provision of VPTs were identified, which aligned with two core themes: 'Motivational barriers to service provision' and 'Educational access & opportunities'. Sub-themes included lack of access to materials and equipment, deficiencies in knowledge of treatment (including protocols, outcomes and prognosis), lack of confidence (in treatment efficacy and clinical ability), time constraints and public dental service funding and remuneration. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies barriers to the widespread adoption of VPTs among primary care GDPs in public and private settings. Economic constraints, practitioner confidence, time limitations and educational gaps are key challenges. Addressing these may require systemic changes such as policy interventions, education and improved resource allocation.

Oxford hip and knee scores deteriorate in patients awaiting lower limb arthroplasty during the COVID-19 pandemic and predict a health state 'worse than death'.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption to elective orthopaedic services. The primary objective of this study was to examine changes in functional scores in patients awaiting total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Secondary objectives were to investigate differences between these groups and identify those in a health state 'worse than death' (WTD). In this prospective cohort study, preoperative Oxford hip and knee scores (OHS/OKS) were recorded for patients added to a waiting list for THA, TKA, or UKA, during the initial eight months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and repeated at 14 months into the pandemic (mean interval nine months (SD 2.84)). EuroQoL five-dimension five-level health questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) index scores were also calculated at this point in time, with a negative score representing a state WTD. OHS/OKS were analyzed over time and in relation to the EQ-5D-5L. A total of 174 patients (58 THA, 74 TKA, 42 UKA) were eligible, after 27 were excluded (one died, seven underwent surgery, 19 non-responders). The overall mean OHS/OKS deteriorated from 15.43 (SD 6.92), when patients were added to the waiting list, to 11.77 (SD 6.45) during the pandemic (p < 0.001). There were significantly worse EQ-5D-5L index scores in the THA group (p = 0.005), with 22 of these patients (38%) in a health state WTD, than either the TKA group (20 patients; 27% WTD), or the UKA group (nine patients; 21% WTD). A strong positive correlation between the EQ-5D-5L index score and OHS/OKS was observed (r = 0.818; p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that an OHS/OKS lower than nine predicted a health state WTD (88% sensitivity and 73% specificity). OHS/OKS deteriorated significantly among patients awaiting lower limb arthroplasty during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, 51 patients were in a health state WTD, representing 29% of our entire cohort, which is considerably worse than existing pre-pandemic data.

Class II composite restoration technique teaching: A randomised controlled crossover laboratory-based trial involving a novel ringless sectional matrix technique.

INTRODUCTION: Objectives were to assess how different techniques (including a novel ringless sectional matrix approach) affect students' restorative outcomes, and their preferences for and preparedness to clinically implement new techniques with the aim of introducing appropriate techniques to the undergraduate curriculum. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Students performed two class II composite restorations in plastic teeth using two sectional matrix techniques (separating ring vs. without [ringless]), and two composite restorative techniques (incremental vs. injection-moulded bulk-fill). Restorations were assessed on multiple parameters which were combined to rate them as "good" or not. Online surveys assessed students' preferences for and preparedness to clinically implement new techniques. RESULTS: Contact area concavity (OR = 106, p < .001) and cervical marginal overhang (OR = 7.4, p < .001) were much more likely with the separating ring compared to the ringless sectional matrix technique. "Good" restorations were 29.5 times more likely when using ringless compared to separating ring techniques and 3.3 times more likely when using the injection-moulding bulk-fill compared to layered composite technique. A majority of students preferred the ringless to separating ring sectional matrix technique and the injection-moulding bulk-fill to layered composite technique. Large majorities felt prepared to implement the new techniques clinically with no or minimal guidance. CONCLUSIONS: A classic sectional matrix technique with separating ring resulted in a much greater occurrence of contact area concavity and cervical marginal overhang than a novel ringless approach. When allied with student preferences and clinical preparedness, inclusion of the novel ringless approach in the undergraduate curriculum can be supported alongside bulk-fill injection-moulding techniques.

Matrix transfer techniques for direct paste composite resins.

This article discusses potential concerns and important considerations when selecting and using matrix transfer techniques for the direct, definitive addition of composite resin to teeth. It also provides guidance to aid these processes with the use of case studies, primarily focusing on the management of tooth wear.

Sectional matrix solutions: the distorted truth.

Sectional matrix techniques offer more predictable solutions to achieving contact areas when placing direct interproximal posterior composites than circumferential matrix techniques, resulting in reduced reported complaints of food packing from patients. Despite this, a large majority of UK dentists and therapists don't currently use them. Sectional matrix systems are technique-sensitive to use, which can be a barrier to implementation for inexperienced users. The matrices can easily distort during their placement and stabilisation and when placing the restorative material. This can result in unwanted, clinically relevant problems in the resulting restorations, some of which may not be discernible once they have occurred. This paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of sectional matrices and the processes and techniques involved in their use, before discussing the potential for distortion at each step. It offers solutions to some of the commonly seen problems which will provide more predictable outcomes for those already using these techniques and encourage non-users to add them to their armamentarium.

How is carious pulp exposure and symptomatic irreversible pulpitis managed in UK primary dental care?

AIM: To investigate attitudes and approaches of UK primary care dentists to carrying out vital pulp treatment (VPT) after carious exposure and with additional signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis. METHODOLOGY: An electronic questionnaire was openly distributed via publicly funded (NHS) local dental committees, corporate dental service-providers, professional societies and social media. Principally NHS practitioners and those from mixed and private practice were targeted, in addition to community and military dental officers, and dental therapists. Participants were asked questions relating to several clinical scenarios, with responses analysed using descriptive statistics. χ2 tests with sequential Bonferroni correction were used to explore variables including the method of remuneration, practitioner type (dentist/therapist), postgraduate qualification(s), place of graduation and years since qualification. Variables with a relationship p ≤ .2 were selected for backwards likelihood ratio logistic modelling. RESULTS: In total, 648 primary care practitioners were included for analysis. Calcium hydroxide (CH) was most frequently used for direct pulp caps (DPCs) (398/600; 66.3%) with calcium silicate cements (CSCs) less frequently used (119/600; 19.8%). Rubber dam was used by 222/599 (37.1%) practitioners. A definitive pulpotomy for the management of teeth with signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis was selected by 65/613 (10.6%) dentists. The principal barrier for the provision of definitive pulpotomies was a lack of training (602/612; 98.4%). Regression analysis identified NHS practitioners as a good predictor for using CH for DPCs, having shorter emergency appointments, limited access to magnification and not using rubber dam. Non-UK graduates were more likely to select CSCs, appropriately control pulpal haemorrhage, undertake appropriate postoperative evaluation and use rubber dam. CONCLUSIONS: Practitioners deviated from evidence-based guidelines in a number of aspects including material selection, asepsis and case selection. A number of other challenges exist in primary care in providing predictable VPTs, including lack of time and access to magnification. These were most evident in NHS practice, potentially exacerbating existing social health inequalities. Possible inconsistencies in the UK undergraduate curriculum were supported by a lack of association between years since qualification and technique employed as well as the fact that non-UK graduates and dentists with postgraduate qualifications adhered more to evidence-based VPT guidelines.

The management of deep caries in UK primary care: A nationwide questionnaire-based study.

AIM: To investigate current approaches and attitudes towards the management of deep caries in primary dental care within the United Kingdom (UK). METHODOLOGY: Open distribution of an electronic questionnaire survey was undertaken to primary care dental professionals working in publicly funded National Health Service [NHS], privately funded, military and community dental services. Demographic variables investigated included the following: place of qualification, method of remuneration, level of restorative training, materials available, years qualified, appointment length and clinician type. Management variables focussed on case-based scenarios. Univariate analyses of responses to questions were undertaken using χ2 tests with sequential Bonferroni correction. Variables with a statistical relationship of p ≤ .2 were selected for binary logistic regression modelling. RESULTS: A total of 657 responses were received. Practitioners with formal postgraduate qualifications (PGQ) were more likely (OR, 95%CI) to undertake further tests to aid diagnosis including: gaining a patient history (1.80, 1.01-3.20), periapical radiography (1.43, 1.01-2.03), cold pulp testing (2.079, 1.46-2.97) and electric pulp testing (1.65, 1.02-2.65). Rubber dam was infrequently used for deep caries management (29.2%). Non-NHS practitioners were much more likely to use rubber dam (3.40, 2.15-5.37), as were those that had completed PGQ (2.24, 1.48-3.38). Non-selective caries removal was used in deep caries by 41.4% of practitioners. Indirect pulp caps were carried out by 56.7% of practitioners. NHS practitioners were more likely to place calcium hydroxide (3.74, 1.97-7.15), whilst non-NHS practitioners were more likely to place calcium silicate cements (CSCs) (3.303, 1.71-6.38) as were non-UK graduates (5.63, 2.47-12.86) and those with PGQ (2.12, 1.17-3.87). CONCLUSIONS: This UK survey highlights significant variation in the management of deep caries. There is lack of consensus regarding the use of a standard systematic approach to diagnosing disease, with a reliance on history and tests with poor specificity. Non-selective caries removal for managing deep carious lesions remains common, with low rubber dam compliance underlining a lack of asepsis. Notably, a significant number of practitioners placed indirect pulp caps, but CSCs and GIC were not commonly used. At present, although clear guidelines are available this is not translating into consistent management approaches in practice, suggesting that better dissemination of current treatments is essential to undergraduate and postgraduate groups.

Preserving pulp vitality: part two - vital pulp therapies.

Vital pulp therapies (VPTs) aim to preserve the vitality of the pulp. The European Society of Endodontology have begun a campaign to raise awareness on the efficacy of VPTs following on from the publication of their 2019 position statement, aimed at both specialists and general dental practitioners. This review examines the current evidence surrounding VPTs and provides a rational approach to the management of the exposed pulp with the aid of case studies. Success lies in accurate diagnosis and case selection, along with well-executed treatment and appropriate follow-up protocols. The introduction of calcium silicate cements has made these treatments more predictable.

Preserving pulp vitality: part one - strategies for managing deep caries in permanent teeth.

This is the first article in a series reviewing the current literature surrounding the management of deep caries in permanent teeth. Approaches to caries management are continuing to evolve, with more conservative management increasingly favoured. This philosophy has never been more important than in managing the deep carious lesion. Evidence is emerging that the use of selective caries removal to reduce the risk of pulp exposure, in conjunction with calcium silicate cements, can be successful in maintaining pulp vitality, delaying the restorative cycle and prolonging the lifespan of the tooth.

Papilla management in sub-gingival, interproximal, direct composite restoration: a key step to success.

Correctly managing interdental papillae is a key step in producing satisfactory, interproximal, direct composite restorations. This article discusses techniques to facilitate the restoration of sub-gingival cavities and suggests a decision-making workflow that can be applied in this challenging situation.

CRP monitoring in fractured neck of femur. A waste of resource?

AIM: We aim to assess post-operative CRP serum values in a cohort of patients who underwent surgical treatment for neck of femur fracture (NOF#), and whether CRP is a valid tool for the assessment of these patients post-operatively. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis was carried out on all NOF#'s admitted for surgical fixation between August 2015 and July 2016 in a district general hospital. Primary analysis included serum CRP levels until day 7 post-operatively, with secondary analysis of any documented evidence of post-operative complications (medical and surgical) within 30 days post-operatively. RESULTS: A total of 365 patients were surgically treated for NOF#'s over the study period. CRP serum levels peaked over the first two days post-operatively to median (IQ range) of 226 mg/L (158-299 mg/L), decreasing to 67 mg/L (45.5-104 mg/L) by day 7 post-operatively. 116 patients had documented post-operative complications within 30 daysof operation. CRP levels in patients with and without complications showed no statistical significance in day-1, day-2 and day-3 post-operatively. However, a significant difference was demonstrated on day-4 (p = 0.017), day-5 (p = 0.003), day-6 (p = 0.02) and day-7 (p = 0.031). CONCLUSIONS: During the first three days of the postoperative period we cannot recommend routine CRP serum blood test monitoring in NOF# patients, as it is not diagnostic in the acute inflammatory phase for medical or surgical complications.

Novel technique to accurately measure femoral diameter using a Thomas splint.

INTRODUCTION: During surgical management of femoral shaft fractures, difficulties arise when treating patients with narrow femoral diaphyseal canals, such as young patients and those with dysplastic femurs secondary to underlying pathology. Accurate pre-operative assessment of the femoral diaphyseal canal diameter would allow the surgeon to plan surgical technique and ensure appropriate equipment was available, such as narrow, unreamed or paediatric sized nails. TECHNIQUE: When secured to the patient both longitudinal rods of the main Thomas Splint component lie parallel with the femoral shaft and horizontal to the radiographic x-ray plate. The diameter of these rods are 13mm (Adult and paediatric). Using the calibration tool, we calibrate the diameter of the Thomas Splint to 13mm, accurately measuring any further detail on that radiograph, such as the diaphyseal canal diameter. CONCLUSION: Accurate knowledge pre-operatively of radiographic measurements is highly valuable to the operating surgeon. This technique can accurately measure femoral canal diameter using the Thomas splint, negates the requirement for a calibration marker, is reproducible, easy to perform, and is indispensible when faced with a patient with a narrow femoral canal in a diaphyseal femoral fracture. (181 words).

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Closed Surgical Wounds in Musculoskeletal Oncology Patients - A Case-Control Trial.

Following excision of musculoskeletal tumours, patients are at high risk of wound issues such as infection, dehiscence and delayed healing. This is due to a multitude of factors including the invasive nature of the disease, extensive soft tissue dissection, disruption to blood and lymphatic drainage, residual cavity and adjuvant therapies. The use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has a growing body of evidence on its beneficial effect of wound healing such as promoting cell differentiation, minimising oedema and thermoregulation. Traditionally, these dressings have been used for open or dehisced wounds; however recent research has investigated its role in closed wounds. AIM: To evaluate the effect of NPWT in patients with closed wounds, either primarily or with flap coverage, in our high risk group. Consecutive patients who had a NPWT dressing applied were selected, and a control group was established by a blinded researcher with matching for tissue diagnosis, surgical site, gender and age. The primary outcome measured was documented for wound complications, with secondary data collected on radiotherapy and wound drainage. RESULTS: Patients were well matched between the intervention (n=9) and control (n=9) groups for gender, age and tissue diagnosis. Both groups had 1 patient who underwent preoperative radiotherapy. A total of 3 wound infections occurred in the control group and none in the NPWT group. Overall there was a trend towards lower drain output and statistically significantly reduced infection rate in the NPWT group. CONCLUSION: In this short series, despite the NPWT patients having more additional risk factors for wound issues, they resulted in fewer infections. The sample size is not sufficient to have statistically significant reduction. Further evaluation on the value of NPWT in this patient group should be prospectively evaluated.

Intervenção da equipe da saúde no combate a diabetes mellitus

As ações educativas são praticas inerentes ao projeto assistencial de saúde em todos os níveis de atenção. As causas de diabetes mellitus estão entre os fatores de risco modificáveis cujo controle associado a mudanças de vida pode ser estimulado no âmbito do atenção básica á saúde, minimizando a morbimortalidade por esta doença e seu impacto na saúde publica. Objetivo: Melhorar os níveis glicêmicos dos diabéticos tipo 2 da UBSF SQ 13 do município de Cidade Ocidental/GO, identificando fatores de risco para diabetes mellitus tipo 2 ,no período do projeto de intervenção e obter controle glicêmico adequado mediante aplicação de ações educativas contra os fatores de risco encontrados. Métodos: foram avaliados e acompanhados 25 pacientes da UBSF SQ 13, nos meses de setembro 2014 e maio de 2015, foram pacientes diagnosticados com diabetes desde há mais de 3 anos. A captação e coleta de amostras dos sujeitos da intervenção ocorreram nas dependências do posto de saúde SQ 13. As medições da glicemia séricas foram feitos no laboratório clinico publico em 3 ocasiões, as demais medições FDA glicemia capilar foram na UBSF SQ 13 e domicilio. As consultas foram agendadas para cada paciente cada três semanas para controle. Visitas domiciliar realizadas por medico a enfermeira e agentes de saúde de forma intercalada. As reuniões feitas em três momentos no período da intervenção com temáticas sobre diabetes e formas de tratamento, exercícios físicos e reunião de avaliação. Durantes as entrevistas individuais foram obtidos os principais fatores de risco sobre o descontrole glicêmico. Diante o acompanhamento, modificando os fatores que causam e medidas de educação em saúde, com os ajustes farmacológicos foram observadas a melhoria nas glicemias basais. A estimulação psicológica é importante para que os pacientes continuem e mantenham o tratamento continuo e o autocuidado. Alem disso a mais importante conclusão foi que a equipe organizada e determinada em resolver os problemas pode resolver situações da grande maioria sem precisar de recursos fora da unidade básica de saúde . Por tanto os resultados observados na intervenção foram satisfatórios em 92%, mostrando que os problemas ou descontrole da glicemia em sua grande maioria pode ser causadas por fatores simples, mais desencadeantes das complicações e que podem ser resolvidos a nível local.