Abstract
Background: Orofacial pain has a broad range of origins and a multidisciplinary approach occupies a relevant role. Objective: The aim of this study was to review the literature regarding the evolution of telemedicine and orofacial pain related to a case report of a patient affected by Eagle's syndrome. Materials and Methods: Two authors (RJM and SG) independently reviewed the literature up to March 2020. A case report was developed by including the interdisciplinary assessment and initial treatment of orofacial pain in a 38-year-old female patient affected by Eagle’s syndrome. The patient was interviewed by two different specialists (from Rome, Italy and Los Angeles, California) through an online meeting platform in order to evaluate her complex situation, demonstrating the possibilities that telemedicine offered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: An interdisciplinary approach can be performed for future follow ups on patients as various advantages were found by the patient and by the clinicians themselves.
Highlights
Orofacial pain may be defined as pain localized in the soft and hard tissues of the head, including the face, neck, oral cavity and temporomandibular joints [1, 2].The etiology of facial pain can be multifactorial [1]
The aim of this study was two-fold: 1) to review the evolution of telemedicine, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and 2) to review the current literature on orofacial pain, especially related to Eagle’s syndrome. To tie both topics together, exploring the advantages of telemedicine for a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, we reported the case of an online assessment and treatment session of a patient affected by Eagle’s syndrome
The current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is reminding us of the importance of using telehealth and telemedicine to deliver care, especially as a means of reducing the risk of cross-contamination caused by close contacts [44]
Summary
The etiology of facial pain can be multifactorial [1] It has a broad range of etiologies: dental, non-dental, intraoral, facial pain with/without intraoral pain and headache related facial pain [2, 3]. Intraoral pain with a non-odontogenic cause can possibly be associated with trigeminal neuropathic pain or soft tissue. Facial pain requires a multidisciplinary approach that, cannot always be achieved due to the difficulty in finding a facility where all specialists are present and work in teams. Dealing with such a complex disease is difficult. Orofacial pain has a broad range of origins and a multidisciplinary approach occupies a relevant role
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