Abstract
Maxillofacial prosthetics is a subspecialty of prosthodontics with a relatively wide scope in that it provides prosthetic rehabilitation and therapeutic appliances for numerous disorders, injuries, and defects of the head and neck region. This subspecialty is widely recognized in developed countries, but less so in many developing countries. This special article is an initial effort to review the current status of maxillofacial prosthetics in Libya’s health and higher education sectors and its future establishment. In addition, we outline the steps needed to move beyond the current status quo in Libya. Based on a review of internationally recognized maxillofacial prosthetic programs based in North America, Europe, Japan, and South Africa, two plans for establishment are recommended for this purpose: an urgent short-term plan and an institutional long-term plan. Applying both plans would initially support maxillofacial prosthetic providers in managing patients with maxillofacial defects and developing contingency plans for follow-up and maintenance.
Highlights
Maxillofacial prosthetics involves prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with congenital and/or acquired defects and is a well-recognized subspecialty of prosthodontics in developed countries.[1]
Libya has a small population (6.22 million in 213)[2] and a relatively healthy economy with 4.3% GDP spending on health[3], the status of maxillofacial prosthetics in Libya is similar to that of less developed countries as it is not recognized as a discipline or even a subspecialty
MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHETICS EDUCATION We reviewed various maxillofacial prosthetic education programs based in North America, Europe, Japan, and
Summary
Maxillofacial prosthetics involves prosthetic rehabilitation of patients with congenital and/or acquired defects and is a well-recognized subspecialty of prosthodontics in developed countries.[1]. Since the Libyan conflict in 211, the incidence of gunshot and road traffic accident injuries has increased significantly due to civilian ownership of weapons and the absence of local law enforcement.[4, 5] more patients with permanent maxillofacial defects have created a need for maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation. Some of these patients have received rehabilitation abroad, many others who were unable to receive prosthetic rehabilitation face living with functional, esthetic, and psychosocial impairments.
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