Oral Surgery Procedures Research Articles

Comparative Study on the Application Effects of Optimized Frozen Section Procedure in Oral Cancer Surgery.

Objective. To investigate the application effects of optimizing the frozen section procedure in oral cancer surgery. Methods. A total of 45 oral cancer patients undergoing surgery were selected as the control group, operated from January 2020 to May 2021, without optimization of the frozen section procedure. Another 45 oral cancer patients undergoing surgery were selected as the experimental group, operated from June 2021 to December 2022, with the optimized frozen section procedure. The differences in the excellent rate of sections, the preparation time, the frozen report time and the accuracy rate between the two groups were compared. Results. In terms of the excellent rate of sections, the optimized procedure group was (44/45) 97.8%, which was higher than the conventional group (40/45) 88.9%; the preparation time and frozen report time in the optimized procedure group were (9.2 ± 0.7) min, and (26.4 ± 2.2) min, respectively, both shorter than those in the conventional group were (12.3 ± 1.3) min, and (31.8 ± 2.7) min, (p < 0.05); the accuracy rate of the frozen report, the optimized procedure group was (43/45) 95.6%, which was higher than the conventional group (40/45) 88.9%. Conclusion. Optimizing the frozen section procedure in oral cancer surgery can achieve desirable results, conducive to improving slide quality, reducing preparation time, and overall frozen report time. It is worthy of promotion.

Asymmetric outcomes in bilateral maxillary impacted tooth extractions: A case report

BACKGROUND The extraction of maxillary impacted teeth is a common procedure in oral surgery, frequently complicated by oroantral communications. For less-experienced clinicians, accurately assessing the difficulty and associated risks of maxillary third molar extractions remain a significant challenge. CASE SUMMARY We present a case involving disparate outcomes following bilateral extraction of maxillary third molars. Using cone-beam computed tomography and three-dimensional software, we conducted a digital assessment of the factors contributing to extraction difficulty and risk, controlling for potential confounders. Key variables analyzed included alveolar bone volume, bone quality, crown-root angulation, and maxillary sinus mucosal thickness. Additionally, we introduce the novel concept of "tegmen bone" to quantitatively evaluate the bone mass between the teeth and the maxillary sinus. This unique case, with differing outcomes on opposite sides of the same patient, provided an opportunity to minimize extraneous variables and focus on the local anatomical factors influencing the procedures, thereby improving the precision of our analysis. CONCLUSION This case highlights the potential utility of predictive analysis in guiding the management of complex tooth extractions.

A Description of the Dental Health and Treatment of Ukraine Military at U.S. Army Clinics in Germany.

Since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war, most reports have focused on trauma and combat conditions. Trauma care is essential; however, disease and nonbattle injuries (DNBIs) also burden armies and reduce combat effectiveness. Dental emergencies (DEs) account for a substantial portion of DNBI, but there is limited information on Ukrainian military dental readiness. In September 2023, investigators were informed that Ukrainian military personnel were treated for DEs at 2 dental clinics in Germany. The investigators requested deidentified data from the Corporate Dental System (CDS), which is a repository for dental treatment records utilized by the U.S. Army. The data request captured DE treatment performed for Ukrainian military personnel in Germany from January 1, 2023, to September 20, 2023. The CDS report on DE encounters included the following: Gender, age, procedure codes, and provider narratives. This study was approved by the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research Institutional Review Board as research not involving human subjects and provided Log Number H-24-030nh. The CDS report captured 408 Ukrainian military DE encounters. A total of 360 Ukrainian military personnel were treated for DE during the 9-month reporting period in 2023. Oral surgery was the most common DE treatment category and accounted for 55.8% (N = 201) of DE procedures. Restorative dentistry procedures accounted for 18.1% of DE procedures. Of the 27 multiple category treatments, 25 had oral surgery procedures as one of the treatments. Restorative dentistry procedures were performed in 19 of the multiple category cases. The DEs in the Ukrainian military cohort suggest that chronic, untreated dental disease has progressed without routine care for years. The assertion that caries has progressed to a nonrestorable condition is supported by the distribution that 63% of all DE visits included oral surgery treatment. Based on the distribution of dental treatment, US dental officers must be proficient in oral surgery and prosthodontic care.

Application of augmented reality navigation in oral surgery. A clinical trial.

Background. Augmented reality (AR) is a potential alternative for surgical navigation, as it can provide visualisation of various anatomical structures of maxilla-facial region.We have developed a specific platform for 3D model management and intraoperative AR-navigation during surgical procedures. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgeons’ perceptions and usability of AR- navigation for most common surgical procedures in oral surgery. Materials and Methods. We performed a phantom study to determine the accuracy of the AR system in the maxillofacial region. Registration errors are typical in image-guided surgery were measured: Fiducial Registration Error (FRE), Target Registration Error (TRE), and Fiducial Localization Error (FLE). Thereafter we conducted a clinical trial with several surgeons performing surgical procedures on jaws using AR-technology. AR- navigation usability was evaluated with the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) (scores range from -3 to +3 for each scale). Results. Mean value of the Fiducial Registration Error was 0.9 mm with SD = 0.7 mm (95% CI 0.4–1.3 mm). Target Registration Error was 1.3 mm (SD= 0.5 mm, 95% CI 1.1–1.5 mm). Fiducial Localization Error was the most significant – 2.2mm (SD= 0.9, 95% CI 1.9–2.5 mm). The higher rankings in the UEQ were related to the novelty and excitement of using an AR-navigation in maxillofacial surgery. The pragmatic quality aspect explains the technical focus of perception to achieve goals in a product, system, or service design. Efficiency was expected to be slightly higher, but in our opinion this is due to the technical difficulties of the system for novel AR technology. Conclusion. Based on our results, accuracy of the AR system in the maxillofacial region and the user experience of the AR-navigation system for oral surgery is good enough.

Evaluating AI-Generated informed consent documents in oral surgery: A comparative study of ChatGPT-4, Bard gemini advanced, and human-written consents

This study evaluates the quality and readability of informed consent documents generated by AI platforms ChatGPT-4 and Bard Gemini Advanced compared to those written by a first-year oral surgery resident for common oral surgery procedures. The evaluation, conducted by 18 experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons, assessed consents for accuracy, completeness, readability, and overall quality.ChatGPT-4 consistently outperformed both Bard and human-written consents. ChatGPT-4 consents had a median accuracy score of 4 [IQR 4-4], compared to Bard's 3 [IQR 3–4] and human's 4 [IQR 3–4]. Completeness scores were higher for ChatGPT-4 (4 [IQR 4–5]) than Bard (3 [IQR 3–4]) and human (4 [IQR 3–4]). Readability was also superior for ChatGPT-4, with a median score of 4 [IQR 4–5] compared to Bard and human consents, both at 4 [IQR 4-4] and 4 [IQR 3–4], respectively. The Gunning Fog Index for ChatGPT-4 was 17.2 [IQR 16.5–18.2], better than Bard's 23.1 [IQR 20.5–24.7] and the human consents' 20 [IQR 19.2–20.9].Overall, ChatGPT-4's consents received the highest quality ratings, underscoring AI's potential in enhancing patient communication and the informed consent process. The study suggests AI can reduce misinformation risks and improve patient understanding, but continuous evaluation, oversight, and patient feedback integration are crucial to ensure the effectiveness and appropriateness of AI-generated content in clinical practice.

Development and validation of a robotic system for milling individualized jawbone cavities in oral and maxillofacial surgery

ObjectivesThis study aimed to develop and validate a robotic system capable of performing accurate and minimally invasive jawbone milling procedures in oral and maxillofacial surgery. MethodsThe robotic hardware system mainly includes a UR5E arm (Universal Robots, Denmark) and the binocular positioning system (FusionTrack 250, Atracsys LLC, Switzerland). The robotic software (Dental Navi 3.0.0, Yakebot Technology Ltd., China) is capable of generating cutting tool paths based on three-dimensional shape description files, typically in the stereolithography format, and selected cutting tool parameters, as well as designing surgical accessories. Fully impacted supernumerary tooth models in the maxilla were fabricated using software and three-dimensional printing. Following the planning of a customized cavity to fully expose the tooth, maxillary bone milling was performed on both the robot and static guide groups (n = 8). After milling, all models underwent scanning for assessment. ResultsIn the experiment with fully buried supernumerary tooth models in the maxilla, the root mean square, translation error, over-removal rate, and maximum distance were significantly smaller in the robot group compared to the static guide group. Moreover, the overlap ratio and Dice coefficient were significantly greater in the robot group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of the rotation error (P = 0.80) or under-removal rate (P = 0.92). ConclusionsThis study has developed a robotic system for milling individualized jawbone cavities in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and its accuracy has been preliminarily verified to meet clinical requirements. Clinical significanceThe robotic system can achieve precise, minimally invasive, individualized jawbone milling in a variety of oral and maxillofacial surgeries, including tooth autotransplantation, surgical reshaping for zygomatic fibrous dysplasia, removal of fully impacted supernumerary or impacted teeth, and endodontic microsurgery, among other relevant clinical applications.

Effect of Hyaluronic Acid on Socket Healing After Lower Impacted Third Molar Tooth Extraction in 40 Dental Patients.

BACKGROUND Surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is the most commonly performed procedure in oral surgery; its associated complications include sensory nerve damage, swelling, and trismus. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) on healing of the socket following extraction of the lower impacted third molar tooth in 40 dental patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS This prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled study was carried out on 40 adult healthy patients indicated for surgical removal of bilateral impacted mandibular third molars with equal surgical difficulty (moderate surgical difficulty according to the Koerner index. Patients with right mandibular third molars were included into the study (HA) group and those with left mandibular third molars were included into the control group. Surgical removal of impacted teeth was performed at different times for each patient for proper measurement of postoperative clinical variables, including pain, swelling, and mouth opening. RESULTS Postoperative pain evaluation results using the visual analog scale (VAS) showed reduced pain levels at all observation periods. Postoperative swelling peaked in intensity within 12-48 hours, resolving between the 5th and 7th days, and there was no significant difference in pre- and postoperative measurements of interincisal opening between both groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS We found that intra-socket application of hyaluronic acid after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars promoted normal wound healing, and there was a clinical benefit of reduced postoperative pain and swelling.

Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs for Oral Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of the present study was to investigate if there are differences in mitigation acute pain following oral surgery procedures within a hospital setting and regarding various medication regimens. A systematic literature search was performed between the years 2013 and 2023, including the databases PUBMED, Cochrane and Scopus, to identify the clinical trials investigating the prescription of non-steroidal (NSAID's) anti-inflammatory drugs before or after an oral surgery. A meta-analysis with meta-regression model was employed on the primary and secondary outcomes, such as pain, swelling and trismus. Thirty-six articles were included, 6 of them being retrospective and 30 prospective, with a higher proportion of women than men, at a ratio of 1.34:1 and an average age of 31.9 years. Drugs with medium duration of action demonstrated lower values for pain and swelling. Regarding these parameters, pain and swelling, propionic acid derivatives and acetic acid derivatives exhibited lower values respectively. The quality of evidence was low to very low- certainty. The meta-analysis suggests that postoperative pain, swelling and trismus following oral surgery management may be effectively treated with the following drugs: NSAID medium-duration action drugs; propionic acid derivatives for lower pain levels and acetic acid derivatives for lower swelling measures; and Ibuprofen 400mg every 8h for 3 days or less. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs are prescribed to prevent or treat dental pain. Ibuprofen 400mg was the most prescribed drug after or before an oral surgery procedure. However, the evidence is indirect and needs to be interpreted with caution.

A Retrospective Analysis of 1311 Oral Surgery Procedures Performed in a Pediatric Hospital in Barcelona: A Study of Their Characteristics and Age-Related Diagnoses.

Background: Oral surgery involves the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases affecting the soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity and encompasses a wide range of surgical interventions. The aim of this investigation was to study the characteristics and age-related diagnoses of these oral surgeries, as well as to describe the surgical procedures performed in a pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery service. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective, observational, and relational study was conducted on children and adolescents aged from 0 to 22 years who were treated in a pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery service at a children's hospital. Results: We analyzed 1311 surgical interventions (51.4% were on boys and 48.6% on girls), consisting of 24.8% soft tissue surgeries, 65.9% bone and dental tissue surgeries, and 9.3% mixed tissue surgeries. The most common pathologies were tooth eruption disorders (65.9%), followed by ankyloglossia (20.5%). The most frequent treatment was wisdom teeth extraction (31.3%). A statistically significant association (p < 0.05) was found between surgical treatments and variables such as age, sex, tissue type, and biopsy. Conclusions: This study enhances our understanding of pediatric oral surgery, emphasizing that the most common pathology is altered tooth eruption, while the most frequent surgical intervention is the extraction of wisdom teeth at different stages of development.

Does secondary adrenal insufficiency require supplementation prior to oral surgery procedures? An update

Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is linked to a rare medical emergency, acute AI, or adrenal crisis (AC), which can occur following stressful events, like infection or surgery. A commonly overlooked form of secondary AI occurs when individuals take exogenous glucocorticoids for extended periods of time, resulting in hypoactivity of the adrenal glands. Many patients take glucocorticoids to treat conditions like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or dermatitis. These patients may be prone to secondary AI, which may go undetected, increasing their risk of facing a medical emergency. Our aim is to review the literature on current guidelines for corticosteroid supplementation for patients at risk of AC; and assess the risk of developing AI in patients taking exogenous glucocorticoids and whether the current supplementation guidelines require modifications. Current recommendations from the Addison’s disease self-help group and Miller suggest steroid supplementation for dental procedures only for patients with primary AI. However, they do not recommend supplementation for patients with secondary or tertiary adrenal insufficiency. The drawbacks of short-term supplementation of glucocorticoids in patients at risk of secondary AI, for stressful dental procedures is negligible. Adverse effects of glucocorticoid use are typically seen after prolonged usage. Thus, steroid supplementation before dental procedures should be considered, customized based on identified risk factors and the stress associated with the procedure, as a pragmatic and preemptive approach to reduce the risk of AC. Moreover, this review highlights the need for updated guidance on supplementing patients at risk of secondary AI

The Impact of the Chlorhexidine Gel (WISDOM®) on Postoperative Sequelae Associated with the Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molars: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background: One of the most prevalent procedures in oral surgery is the removal of impacted mandibular third molars, typically accompanied by trismus, edema, and pain. Several methods and biomaterials were implemented to mitigate or avoid these surgical problems. Objectives: To evaluate the efficiency of chlorhexidine gel (WISDOM®) in minimizing postoperative sequelae associated with the impacted mandibular third molar that will be surgically extracted and its role in promoting early soft tissue closure of the surgical site. Methods: The study design was a double-masked and randomized, controlled clinical study that included healthy patients needing the removal of a mandibular third molar through surgery. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The extraction site of the study group was filled with a mixture of gel foam and WISDOM®. In contrast, we filled the extraction sites of the control group patients with gel foam and sutured the surgical sites for both groups. The patients were evaluated on the first, third, and seventh postoperative days for pain, swelling, trismus, and early soft tissue healing. Results: Sixty eligible patients were enrolled in this study. The study group exhibited a statistically significant decrease in pain, edema, trismus, and early soft tissue healing on the first, third, and seventh postoperative days compared to the control group. Conclusions: WISDOM® gel can effectively reduce postoperative pain, trismus, and swelling and promote early soft tissue healing after surgical removal of an impacted mandibular wisdom tooth.

Digital Surgical Guides in Mandibular Genioplasty: Evaluating Precision Against Conventional Techniques.

Mandibular genioplasty, a central procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery, has traditionally relied on surgeon experience with potential limitations in precision. The advent of digital methods, particularly computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), offers a promising alternative. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of digital surgical guides in improving the precision of mandibular genioplasty. A prospective analysis of 50 patients undergoing genioplasty was performed, 30 in the experimental group using digital surgical guides and 20 in the control group using traditional methods. Three-dimensional reconstructions were obtained using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital scans. Osteotomy guides were 3D-printed based on group assignment. Postoperatively, accuracy was assessed by measuring distances between landmarks. The experimental group showed significantly reduced horizontal positioning errors in genioplasty advancement, with no significant differences in vertical errors. For genioplasty retraction, the experimental group showed fewer vertical positioning errors, while horizontal errors remained consistent. The use of digital surgical guides in mandibular genioplasty significantly improves surgical accuracy, resulting in improved outcomes and patient satisfaction. This study highlights the potential of digital methods in refining oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

“Comparison of activated Platelet Rich Fibrin and Platelet Rich Fibrin in osseous regeneration of freshly extracted socket- A double blinded randomized clinical study”

IntroductionDental extraction is a common oral surgery procedure, but it can lead to unpredictable changes in alveolar bone structure, which can complicate future rehabilitation with prostheses. Socket preservation aims to reduce bone and soft tissue loss after extraction and involves various techniques using different materials. Autogenous bone is considered the gold standard for grafts, while autologous platelet concentrates like platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) have been used for tissue healing. This study aims to radiographically assess the bone remodeling of freshly extracted socket filled with Activated Platelet Rich Fibrin (APRF) and PRF. Materials and methodsA randomized controlled study was conducted on 60 patients undergoing tooth extraction as atraumatic as possible. Patients were divided into two groups: one receiving APRF with 10% Calcium Chloride as activating agent and the other PRF. Radiographic assessments were done using Kelley et al. scoring criteria at various time intervals, and statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the results. ResultsIn this study we found increased bone density in extracted socket filled with APRF at any given time interval compared to PRF which is statistically significant. The maxilla demonstrated better bone formation compared to the mandible. Gender, age, and site also influenced bone formation, with females showing differences in lamina dura and overall density. DiscussionPRF is rich in growth factors, promoting osteoblast formation and angiogenesis. Activation with calcium chloride accelerates clot formation and the release of growth factors. This study's radiographic data suggests that APRF may be more effective than PRF in promoting socket preservation and bone formation.

Does Positioning During Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Operations Influence the Development of Upper Extremity Peripheral Neuropathy?

BackgroundControversy exists regarding the role of specific etiology and mitigating factors in perioperative upper extremity peripheral neuropathy (PUN) development during oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) procedures. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to measure the association between upper extremity positioning and developing PUN in oral and maxillofacial surgery operations. Study design, setting, sampleThe investigators implemented a retrospective cohort study. Patients referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Jefferson Health who underwent orthognathic, telegnathic, or free flap surgery from April 2017 through December 2021 were identified. Exclusion criteria were age less than 13, revision surgery, ablative case without free flap reconstruction, incomplete medical record, pre-existing neuropathy, and upper extremity position other than tucked or abducted. Predictor variableThe predictor variable was upper extremity (UE) position during surgery, which had two levels-- tucked or abducted. Outcome variableThe outcome variable was self-reported development of PUN, defined as new sensory and/ or motor deficit in a non-operated extremity diagnosed within 48 hours of surgery. CovariatesDemographic covariates included age, gender, and race. Perioperative covariates included American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status and body mass index (BMI). The operative covariate was general anesthesia (GA) duration. AnalysesDescriptive statistics were calculated. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess normality of the sample. Categorical variables were analyzed with Fisher’s exact test. Continuous variables were analyzed with Mann-Whitney U test. Significance was defined at P<0.05. ResultsOf the 432 patients identified, 342 met inclusion criteria. Median (IQR) ages for the abducted and tucked cohorts were 40 (31) and 34 (28) years, respectively (P<0.01). Males comprised 55.4% (n=41) and 54.1% (n=145) of abducted and tucked groups, respectively (P=0.9). PUN frequency was 6.8% (n=5) for abducted subjects and 3.7% (n=10) for tucked subjects (relative risk 1.8, 95%CI [0.7,5.1]; P=0.33). PUN was associated with gender (P=0.01), ASA status (P=0.03), BMI (P=0.01), and GA duration (P<0.01) on bivariate analysis. When adjusting for covariates, only GA duration (P<0.01) and BMI (P=0.03) were associated with PUN development Conclusion and relevanceThe findings suggest that PUN development during OMS procedures was not associated with upper extremity position.

Expert consensus on standardized clinical applications of minimally invasive tooth extraction techniques

Tooth extraction is a common and widely employed therapeutic procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Minimally invasive tooth extraction can reduce both physical and psychological trauma to the patients, and is widely recommended as a first-line clinical treatment. But currently no guidelines or consensus has been available to provide a systematic introduction of minimally invasive tooth extraction to guide the clinical practices. To address this issue, this consensus, based on a comprehensive literature review and clinical experiences of experts, systematically summarizes the indications, target patients, and contraindications of minimally invasive tooth extraction, the overall workflow of this procedure (preoperative preparation, surgical steps, postoperative management, postoperative instructions, medications, and follow-up), and its common postoperative complications to provide a comprehensive guidance for clinical application of this technique.

Management of a solitary bone cyst using a custom-made surgical guide for a minimally invasive approach: technical note and case report

BackgroundSolitary Bone Cyst (SBC), also known as a simple bone cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, or traumatic cyst is classified by the WHO among non-odontogenic benign lesions of the jaw. The article explores the use of a static 3D-printed surgical guide to treat mandibular SBC, emphasizing a minimally surgical approach for this lesion.Case PresentationA 20-year-old woman was referred for a persistent mandibular SBC lacuna, without specific complaints. Her medical history included a previous bone trepanation for a SBC in the same area, radiologically and surgically confirmed. X-ray assessment showed a well-defined unilocular radiolucency surrounding the root of the first left lower molar (tooth #36), measuring 10 × 10 mm. Pulp sensitivity was normal. CBCT data and STL files of dental cast were obtained preoperatively and registered. A 3D-printed surgical guide was used for minimally invasive trepanation of the buccal cortical. The simulation used a targeted endodontic microsurgery approach in order to determine axis and diameter of the trephine. Surgery was performed under local anesthesia. The guide was tooth supported integrating tubes and a fork for guiding precise trepanation. A 3.5 mm round bone window was created, leaving an empty cavity confirming SBC diagnosis and permitting bone curettage. A blood clot was obtained to promote bone healing. Complete reossification was observed after 6 months. The follow-up at 2 years confirmed a complete bone healing with normal pulp sensitivity.DiscussionThe 3D-printed windowed surgical guide with dental support offers big advantages, including improved visibility and reduced errors. Compared to traditional guides, it eliminates visual hindrance and allows easier and quick access to confined areas as well as an improved irrigation during drilling process. The article also highlights the importance of preoperative planning while acknowledging potential limitations and errors and surgical complications.ConclusionThe use of the 3D-printed surgical guide could be used in routine for minimally invasive intervention of SBC. This case also demonstrates the potential utility of this approach in various procedures in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The technique provides precise localization, reducing complications and enhances operative efficiency.

Computer-Guided Bone Lid Technique for Surgical Extraction of Deeply Impacted Mandibular Third Molars: A Technical Report

The extraction of mandibular impacted third molars is one of the most common procedures in oral surgery. One of the extraction methods consists of the preparation of a buccal bone lid to obtain access and remove the tooth. This technique aims to reduce bone loss, promote bone healing distal to the second molar, and increase the accessibility to the impacted tooth, particularly in cases of concomitant pathologies or proximity to the mandibular canal. The procedure benefits from the application of 3D printing technologies to produce cutting guides that, combined with piezosurgery, allow deeply impacted third molar extractions with excellent preoperative planning and extreme localisation precision, as well as predictable repositioning and fixation of the bone lid. The objective of this article is to present two clinical cases of the application of the bone lid technique to extract deeply impacted third molars using 3D printed guides with different designs and piezosurgery.

EFFICACY OF SUBLINGUAL VERSUS ORAL PIROXICAM IN MANAGEMENT OF POST-SURGICAL PAIN, SWELLING AND TRISMUS AFTER LOWER 3RD MOLAR SURGERY- A RANDOMIZED CONTROL CLINICAL TRIAL

Background of the study: Third molar surgical removal is a common procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery, causing moderate to severe pain, swelling, and trismus. Postoperative pain control improves patient recovery and oral function, with commonly used analgesics including Ibuprofen, Aceclofenac, Ketorolac, Tramadol, Paracetamol, Nalbuphine, Nimusulide, and Buprenorphine. Aim and Objective: The study compares oral and sub-lingual Piroxicam for managing post-surgical pain after extraction of impacted third molars, focusing on analgesia onset, pain intensity, swelling, and trismus degree. Materials and method: A randomized control trial was conducted on 30 patients who underwent surgical removal of mandibular impacted third molars. The patients were divided into two groups: Group I (Study) and Group II (Control). All patients underwent the procedure by a single surgeon. Post-operative medications were prescribed according to the study design, with Piroxicam 20mg administered sub-lingually (Group I) and 20mg orally (Group II). The parameters were assessed and measured for both groups, and the results and statistical analysis were compared. Result: The results revealed that the inter-group difference for the post-operative symptoms evaluated using a t-test for Equality of means by comparing the pre-op, POD 2, POD 7 values was statistically significant. Mean onset time taken and pain perception by Group I (Sub-lingual) in the first dose was 32.3 minutes and for Group II was 51.21 minutes which was established to be significantly (P&lt;0.05) low for the sub-lingual group by statistical analysis. Conclusion: The study found that the sublingual route of administering Piroxicam had a faster onset of action and better analgesia postoperatively compared to the oral route. This is crucial for patients and surgeons to improve compliance and comfort post-operatively after impaction surgery, as potent analgesics are essential for effective pain management.

Augmented reality: a new perspective in dental education

INTRODUCTION The Microsoft HoloLens is a mixed reality device with the capability to provide a real-time 3D platform using multiple sensors and holographic processing to display information, and even to simulate a virtual world. With rapidly evolving technology and virtual learning on the increase, the HoloLens can be used as a vital tool for education and surgical planning. The aim of this pilot study was to ascertain its benefit in dental education and in the surgical planning of complex oral surgery procedures. METHODS A cohort of postgraduate dentists working at the Eastman Dental Hospital in London were shown two holographic videos. Participation was voluntary and an email invitation was sent to all non-consultant grade dental staff across multiple dental specialties. The cases demonstrated were a mandibular third molar in close association with the inferior alveolar nerve and an impacted tooth. Each video had a narration and explanation by a consultant oral surgeon. After having watched the videos, participants were asked to rate seven statements using a Likert scale. RESULTS Eighty-two per cent of participants reported improved comprehension of orientating anatomical structures. All participants (100%) noted improved confidence in surgical planning. Ninety-four per cent believed that the technology was an invaluable surgical tool in postgraduate training. CONCLUSIONS Augmented reality has the potential to change the face of surgery in the 21st century. This technology can be used to improve surgical training, especially in an environment where hands-on training is limited and virtual learning is promoted.

Risk factors for post-extraction infection of mandibular third molar: A retrospective clinical study

Post-extraction infection is one of the most concerning complications of mandibular third molar extraction, which is the most common procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery. We investigated risk factors for post-extraction infection by retrospectively analyzing 2,513 teeth/cases of mandibular third molar extraction (1,040 males, 1,473 females) performed at a single medical facility in Kobe, Japan from January 2014 to May 2022. The predictive variables were categorized as patient attributes, health status, and anatomic, pathological, and operative variables that may be associated with post-extraction infection. The outcome variable was the post-extraction infection rate. The post-extraction infection rate was 5.73 % (144 of the 2,513 teeth), and the mean age of the patients with a post-extraction infection was 41.76 ± 16.8 years. Our analyses also revealed that the postoperative infection rate was significantly increased in patients aged ≥36 years. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the following variables were significantly associated with post-extraction infection: preoperative antibiotic administration (odds ratio [OR] 4.68, p < 0.001), postoperative paresthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve (OR 4.34, p < 0.001), intraoperative hemostatic procedure (OR 1. 74, p = 0.008), position of Pell and Gregory classifications (OR 1. 70, p < 0.001), Winter's classification (OR 1.28, p < 0.03), and age (OR 1.03, p < 0.001). Oral and maxillofacial surgeons should be aware of these risk factors.