FACTORS INflUENCING ODONTOGENIC MAXILLOFACIAL INFECTIONS AND THE ECONOMIC IMPACT AT A UK HOSPITAL

Abstract

Objectives To describe the presentation, management, and demographics of 100 consecutive patients with odontogenic infection managed at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, UK. To identify factors influencing Length of Stay (LOS) with the resulting economic impact. Findings Male: female ratio was 54:46 with a mean age of 36 years and mean LOS of 2.38 nights. 29% had not received treatment prior to admission. Age, White cell count, male gender, and multiple space infection were associated with a significantly greater LOS. The most commonly involved fascial spaces were the submandibular (39%) and buccal (39%) spaces. 10% of patients experienced complications as a result of infection. Diabetes, smoking and treatment prior to admission were found not to significantly affect LOS. A total of 238 nights in hospital were spent by these patients in this study. Assuming an average cost of £400 ($ 560) per night, and OR cost of £1200/hour this cost the national health system an estimated £133,600 ($186,600) for an often preventable disease. Conclusions Severe odontogenic infection are preventable by regular dental attendance, and represent a significant morbidity and economic cost to patients and limited health resources that are under financial constraints. Aggressive management of odontogenic infections should be considered for older, male patients with multiple space involvement and a high White Cell Count.