Oral Surgery Research Articles

Performance of artificial intelligence versus clinicians on the detection of contact between mandibular third molar and inferior alveolar nerve

AbstractPurposeThis study aimed to assess the performance of the ResNet‐50 deep learning algorithm in classifying panoramic images to determine contact between mandibular third molars and inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), comparing its performance with newly graduated dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgery specialists.MethodsPanoramic radiographs of mandibular third molars were retrieved from the Radiology Department, School of Dentistry, Kashan University of Medical Sciences. The images were independently classified as “contact” or “none‐contact” by the ResNet‐50 model, three newly graduated dentists, and three oral and maxillofacial surgery specialists. A maxillofacial radiologist sets the gold standard using cone beam‐CT. The accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, and dice coefficient were calculated for each group, with inter‐rater reliability assessed using Cohen's kappa value.ResultsOf the 548 images retrieved, 15% were allocated as the testing dataset, amounting to 82 images. The deep learning model showed the highest performance metrics, with an accuracy of 87.80%, precision of 78.57%, recall of 84.61%, specificity of 89.28%, and dice coefficient of 81.48%. Conversely, novice dentists had the lowest performance metrics (accuracy: 74.39% ± 2.99%, precision: 57.75% ± 4.33%, recall: 74.36% ± 1.81%, specificity: 74.4% ± 4.46%, and dice coefficient: 64.87% ± 2.69%). Specialists demonstrated accuracy of 84.96% ± 1.52%, precision of 72.65% ± 2.78%, recall of 84.61% ± 3.14%, specificity of 85.12% ± 2.23%, and dice coefficient of 78.11% ± 1.99%.ConclusionDeep learning algorithms can achieve comparable outcomes with oral and maxillofacial specialists and may outperform novice clinicians in diagnosing contact between third molars and IAN.

Utilizing Artificial Neural Networks for Geometric Bone Model Reconstruction in Mandibular Prognathism Patients

Patient-specific 3D models of the human mandible are finding increasing utility in medical fields such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, dentistry, and forensic sciences. The efficient creation of personalized 3D bone models poses a key challenge in these applications. Existing solutions often rely on 3D statistical models of human bone, offering advantages in rapid bone geometry adaptation and flexibility by capturing a range of anatomical variations, but also a disadvantage in terms of reduced precision in representing specific shapes. Considering this, the proposed parametric model allows for precise manipulation using morphometric parameters acquired from medical images. This paper highlights the significance of employing the parametric model in the creation of a personalized bone model, exemplified through a case study targeting mandibular prognathism reconstruction. A personalized model is described as 3D point cloud determined through the utilization of series of parametric functions, determined by the application of geometrical morphometrics, morphology properties, and artificial neural networks in the input dataset of human mandible samples. With 95.05% of the personalized model’s surface area displaying deviations within −1.00–1.00 mm relative to the input polygonal model, and a maximum deviation of 2.52 mm, this research accentuates the benefits of the parametric approach, particularly in the preoperative planning of mandibular deformity surgeries.

Investigation of the relationship of the maxillary sinus floor with maxillary posterior teeth using cone beam CT.

Any intervention to the maxillary posterior teeth (MPT) and alveola pose a risk of sinus perforation. Given the proximity of these structures, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the maxillary sinus (MS) and MPT. CBCT images obtained from 207 patients (mean age, 45 ± 17 years; age range: 18-92 years) including 99 females and 108 males were examined retrospectively. Patients with sinus pathologies affecting the structure of MS and a history of oral and maxillofacial surgery were excluded from the study. On these images, the relationship of maxillary sinus floor (MSF) with 2 premolars and 3 molars was examined bilaterally for each patient using Kwak H. H. et al.'s classification. The presence, number, frequency and location of septa within the MSF were investigated. Examination of a total of 410 maxillary sinuses on the images of 207 patients with no sinus perforation or pathology revealed that septa were most commonly (48.7%) located in the middle segment (second molars). When the relationship between the MSF and MPT was evaluated, molar teeth were found to have a closer relationship with the MSF than premolars. It is believed that the findings of this study may provide further guidance to the dental practitioners and other clinicians for future studies.

Evaluating the difference in perception of the Akinosi technique among dentistry students: A comparison between theoretical and practical learning.

Effective pain control is crucial in dental practice; thus, local anesthetic techniques have been extensively taught. The Halstead technique is the most commonly used inferior alveolar nerve block despite its relatively high failure rate. On the other hand, the Vazirani‒Akinosi technique (VAT) is less commonly taught. This study evaluated changes in final-year students' perceptions of VAT after a period of active learning. This prospective randomized study was performed in 2022 and included fifth-year dental students (n=91). The study group (n=49) received practical VAT training during oral surgery internships, whereas the control group (n=42) did not. A Likert-scale questionnaire assessed students' perceptions, theoretical knowledge, and difficulty levels. An independent sample t-test was used for comparison and the statistical significance level was set at p<0.05. The survey response rate was 100%. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the groups for seven of the 12 questionnaire statements (p<0.05). Overall, perception scores favored the study group, indicating a more positive response. The statements related to theoretical knowledge, except for one statement, showed no significant differences (p>0.05). Practical training significantly improved students' perceptions of VAT, demonstrating the importance of active learning in dental education. Faculties should integrate active learning methods to enhance students' clinical skills and prepare them for professional practice.

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.

Surgical Treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis: our experience with 36 cases.

To evaluate and compare outcomes of patients with temporomandibular joint ankylosis (TMJA) treated by gap arthroplasty, costochondral graft, and total alloplastic joint reconstruction. A retrospective cohort study reviewed and analyzed data from patients with TMJA from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2019, at the Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery Department, University of the Witwatersrand. Patients with TMJA were treated either with gap arthroplasty, costochondral graft, or total alloplastic joint reconstruction. Data collected included age, sex, etiology of ankylosis, sides involved, preoperation and postoperation mouth opening (MO), treatment type, complications, and revision surgery. Patients were followed up for at least 18 months after the surgical procedure. Comparison of means across the treatment groups was analyzed using paired t tests or analysis of variance test. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study sample comprised of 36 patients [bilateral, n=22; unilateral, n=14 (21 male, 15 female)]. Trauma was the most common etiology (n=27, 75%), followed by chronic infections (n=4, 11.11%) and juvenile arthritis (n=3, 8.3%). A paired t test revealed no statistical significance between treatment modality and postoperative MO and complications over 18 months (P=0.5316 and P=0.426, respectively). The mean MO increased from 4 to 28mm. Reankylosis was the most common complication (n=5). All 3 treatment options yield acceptable outcomes in patients with TMJA. Irrespective of surgical technique, early postoperative exercises, active physiotherapy, and follow-up are imperative for successful rehabilitation and prevention of reankylosis.

Predicting the results of osteoplasty in oral surgery

The article presents the results of the outcomes analysis of osteoplasty in the rehabilitation of patients using dental implants, examines its various types and biological factors affecting the success of these operations. An attempt has been made to find possible solutions to the problem of bone insufficiency in the treatment of patients with missing teeth.The aim of the study is to study the results of various bone grafting techniques in patients in preparation for dental implantation and the success factors of this surgery.Materials and methods: the results of 281 osteoplasties were evaluated. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to the surgery technique performed: guided bone regeneration (GBR); bone block transplantation (BBT); open sinus-lifting (OSL); local bone modifying (LBM). Complications and results of these surgeries were evaluated.Results: significant and critical complications were more common in the operations of GBR (61.7% and 21.28%, respectively) and BBT (28.57%). After evaluating the outcomes of osteoplastic surgery, it was found that the acceptable result of OSL was 93.27%, LBM 88.43%; while we noted an unacceptable result during GBR in 76.59%, and BBT 57.14%. Complications in the form of non-critical reversible ones were more common during OSL (42.3%), however, significant and critical complications were detected after operations of GBR (61.7%) and BBT (28.57%). The results of the analysis of the outcomes of bone plastic surgery in the oral surgery indicate a significant percentage of unsuccessful outcomes of the GBR (76.59%) and BBT (57.14%).Conclusion: the study demonstrates the clinical value and effectiveness of various osteoplasties’ methods. In our opinion, outcomes and complications is associated, among other things, with a different factors, the main of which are the number of existing bone walls of the defect (atrophy), the volume of replacement, age and localization, which must be taken into account when predicting the results of this surgery.

Modern approach to the treatment of postoperative symptoms of patients undergoing oral surgery

Introduction. Removal of wisdom teeth is always accompanied by the appearance of collateral edema of varying severity, pain, neurological dysfunction and inflammatory contracture of the masticatory muscles.Purpose. To evaluate the use of local apparatus hypothermia and the method of three-dimensional facial scanning for the treatment of patients after extraction of mandibular third molars.Materials and methods. 60 patients had their wisdom teeth removed. Depending on the group, local apparatus hypothermia (LAH) (study group of 30 patients) and local ice hypothermia (LIH) (control group of 30 patients) were performed after surgery. Evaluation criterion: three-dimensional scanning of the face on days 3, 5, 7.Results. In the control group, on the 3rd day the size of the edema was 6.31 mm (SD 0.81), on the 5th day – 4.88 mm (SD 0.73), on the 7th day – 3.44 mm (SD 0.88). In the study group, on the 3rd day the size of the edema was 5.09 mm (SD 0.80), on the 5th day – 2.73 mm (SD 0.71), on the 7th day – 1.28 mm (SD 0,62). In the control group, the size of edema on the 5th day changed by 22.67% compared to the 3rd day, on the 7th day by 30.12% compared to the 5th day and by 45.94% compared to 3rd day. In the study group, the size of edema on the 5th day changed by 46.42% compared to the 3rd day, on the 7th day by 53.16% compared to the 5th day and by 75.32% compared 3rd day. Comparison of groups 3, 5 and 7 in terms of absolute values of edema size and percentage change showed a statistically significant difference (p&lt;0.001).Conclusion. The use of local apparatus hypothermia in the postoperative period can reduce the severity of collateral edema in a shorter period compared to standard methods of local hypothermia.

Deep learning in oral surgery for third molar extraction: empirical evidence and original model

Preemptive analgesia is an analgesic intervention to influence postoperative pain sensation. Control of postoperative pain is a major challenge for any surgeon. Adequate control of postoperative pain continues to be a challenge for modern medicine. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in all spheres of life, including medicine, has created the technical ability to process a variety of types and characteristics of data related to many diseases. The application of artificial neural networks in medical science has made it possible to obtain an independent, objective assessment as a consequence of the application of preemptive analgesia. The data analysis by our original model, compared with the routinely used statistical methods, show the presence of a tendency for a positive effect of preemptive analgesia. In order to obtain an efficient self-learning neural network, it is necessary to use large arrays of properly selected data that fulfill the role of input parameters for the neural network. The results obtained from the original model used are comparable to the traditionally used statistical methods. This model objectifies to a certain extent the preemptive analgesia in the surgery of third mandibular molars.

Submental Artery Perforator Flap Drained Solely With the Vena Comitans of Facial Artery.

The submental artery perforator flap (SMAPF) is an alternative to reconstruct oral and maxillofacial defects secondary to oral cancers. However, vascular anomalies or surgical damage often lead to vascular crises or harvest failure. Our clinical findings suggest that the vena comitans of the facial artery (cFA) very commonly exist. This study aimed to investigate the reliability of the cFA as a sole venous reflux route for the SMAPF. The patients were from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital of Stomatology, Jilin University. All patients were treated for oral cancer between January 2016 and September 2022. Seventeen SMAPFs were successfully raised to reconstruct the postoperative defects, of which 7 had cFA as the sole reflux route. The size of the flaps varied from 4.0×3.0cm to 12.0×3.0cm. All flaps survived. Patients were followed from 1 month to 5 years. Satisfactory restoration of contour and functional outcomes were achieved at the recipient sites. The scars were well camouflaged in the submental region. No local or regional recurrence was detected during follow-up. Patients had an overall 2-year survival rate of 100% with no suspected flaps-related recurrence. The cFA as the sole venous reflux route for SMAPF is reliable for flap harvesting and is applicable for immediate defect reconstruction secondary to cancer resection.

Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical evaluation of hyperplastic soft tissues surrounding dental implants in fibular jaws

In reconstructive surgery, complications post-fibula free flap (FFF) reconstruction, notably peri-implant hyperplasia, are significant yet understudied. This study analyzed peri-implant hyperplastic tissue surrounding FFF, alongside peri-implantitis and foreign body granulation (FBG) tissues from patients treated at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Seoul National University Dental Hospital. Using light microscopy, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, anucleate and pyknotic prickle cells, and excessive collagen deposition were observed in FFF hyperplastic tissue. Ultrastructural analyses revealed abnormal structures, including hemidesmosome dilation, bacterial invasion, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) swelling. In immunohistochemical analysis, unfolded protein-response markers ATF6, PERK, XBP1, inflammatory marker NFκB, necroptosis marker MLKL, apoptosis marker GADD153, autophagy marker LC3, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis markers were expressed variably in hyperplastic tissue surrounding FFF implants, peri-implantitis, and FBG tissues. NFκB expression was higher in peri-implantitis and FBG tissues compared to hyperplastic tissue surrounding FFF implants. PERK expression exceeded XBP1 significantly in FFF hyperplastic tissue, while expression levels of PERK, XBP1, and ATF6 were not significantly different in peri-implantitis and FBG tissues. These findings provide valuable insights into the interconnected roles of ER stress, necroptosis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis in the pathogenesis of oral pathologies, offering a foundation for innovative strategies in dental implant rehabilitation management and prevention.

Lacrimal Obstruction in Craniosynostosis: Anatomical and Genetic Risk Factors

Purpose: To investigate whether patients with craniosynostosis exhibit higher rates of nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) and to explore potential risk factors. Methods: Retrospective review including all craniosynostosis patients treated at both the Divisions of Ophthalmology and Plastic, Reconstructive, and Oral Surgery at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia between 2009 and 2020 was conducted. Synostosis characteristics, lacrimal disorders, and genetic data were collected. Main outcome measures were the rate of NLDO and associations with anatomical and syndromic/genetic risk factors. Results: The total of 767 participants had a mean age of 2.8 ± 3.8 years, 465 (60.6%) were males, 485 (63.2%) had no syndromic association; 631 (82.3%) had one major suture involved, 128 (17%) had involvement of 2 to 4 major sutures, and 429 (55.9%) underwent craniofacial surgery. Forty-eight (6.2%) patients had NLDO, which more prevalent in the genetic/syndromic group (11.0% vs. 3.5%, respectively, p &lt; 0.001), with the highest prevalence observed in patients with Apert syndrome (n = 4, 30.8%). The genetic variants most associated with NLDO were EFNB1 (n = 1, 100%) and FGFR2 (n = 6, 19.4%). There was no association between NLDO and the number or types of sutures involved or a history of craniofacial surgery. Conclusions: Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is more common in patients with craniosynostosis compared to the general population. Having a putative syndrome or a putative genetic variant and female sex were risk factors for NLDO. Ophthalmic evaluations for all craniosynostosis patients and careful assessments of any symptoms of tearing are recommended.

Advancements and current research in orofacial tissue regeneration

The orofacial system, an intricate assembly of diverse tissues that underpin the unique biologic and morphological identity of an individual, presents a formidable challenge in the realm of tissue regeneration within oral and maxillofacial surgery. This review conducts a retrospective appraisal of advancements in the field of orofacial tissue regeneration, elucidating the current research landscape while critically addressing the persisting challenges. It underscores the pivotal roles of orofacial mesenchymal stem cells in orchestrating regenerative processes, offering an insightful outlook on future developments. The objective is to demarcate innovative therapeutic avenues and clinical implications by fostering a comprehensive understanding of this domain among dental practitioners. As such, it aspires to serve as a valuable reference for prospective investigations and to elevate the knowledge base pertaining to orofacial tissue regeneration.

A preliminary in vivo and in vitro study of endothelial cell pyroptosis in the periodontal inflammatory environment

Objective: To observe whether endothelial cells undergo pyroptosis in the inflammatory periodontal environment by using a model in vivo and in vitro, providing an experimental basis for indepth understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of periodontitis. Methods: According to the classification of periodontal diseases of 2018, gingival tissues were collected from periodontally healthy subjects and patients with stage Ⅲ-Ⅳ, grade C periodontitis, who presented Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University from April to May 2022. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to detect the expression level and distribution of gasdermin D (GSDMD), a hallmark protein of cell pyroptosis, in gingival tissues. Periodontitis models were established in each group by ligating the maxillary second molar teeth of three mice for 2 weeks (ligation group). The alveolar bone resorption was determined by micro-CT (mice without ligation treatment were used as the control group), and the colocalization of GSDMD and CD31 were quantitatively analyzed by immunofluorescence staining in gingival tissues of healthy and inflammatory mice. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured in vitro and treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) combined with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at various concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/L, respectively, and the 0 mg/L group was set as the control group at the same time. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the morphology of HUVECs. Western blotting was used to detect the expression of gasdermin D-N terminal domains (GSDMD-N) protein and immunofluorescence cell staining was used to detect the expression and distribution of GSDMD. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to detect the proliferative ability of HUVECs, and propidium iodide (PI) staining was used to detect the integrity of cell membrane of HUVECs. Results: Immunohistochemistry showed that GSDMD in gingival tissues of periodontitis was mainly distributed around blood vessels and its expression level was higher than that in healthy tissues. Micro-CT showed that alveolar bone resorption around the maxillary second molar significantly increased in ligation group mice compared with control subjects (t=8.88, P<0.001). Immunofluorescence staining showed significant colocalization of GSDMD with CD31 in the gingival vascular endothelial cells in mice of ligation group. The results of scanning electron microscopy showed that there were pores of different sizes, the typical morphology of pyroptosis, on HUVECs cell membranes in the inflammatory environment simulated by ATP combined with different concentrations of LPS, and 2.5 mg/L group showed the most dilated and fused pores on cell membranes, with the cells tended to lyse and die. Western blotting showed that the expression of GSDMD-N, the hallmark protein of cell pyroptosis, was significantly higher in 2.5 and 5.0 mg/L groups than that in the control group (F=3.86, P<0.01). Immunofluorescence cell staining showed that the average fluorescence intensity of GSDMD in 2.5 mg/L group elevated the most significantly in comparison with that in the control group (F=35.25, P<0.001). The CCK-8 proliferation assay showed that compared to the control group (1.00±0.02), 0.5 mg/L (0.52±0.07), 1.0 mg/L (0.57±0.10), 2.5 mg/L (0.58±0.04), 5.0 mg/L (0.55±0.04), 10.0 mg/L (0.61±0.03) groups inhibited cell proliferation (F=39.95, P<0.001). PI staining showed that the proportion of positive stained cells was highest [(56.07±3.22)%] in 2.5 mg/L group (F=88.24, P<0.001). Conclusions: Endothelial cells undergo significant pyroptosis in both in vivo and in vitro periodontal inflammatory environments, suggesting that endothelial cell pyroptosis may be an important pathogenic factor contributing to the pathogenesis of periodontitis.

Senolytic effects on dental pulp stem cell's proliferation and differentiation during long-term expansion

Objective: To investigate the impact of intermittent senescent cell clearance on the proliferation and differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) in long-term, large-scale expansion, and to explore strategies for maintaining the youthful state of DPSC in vitro. Methods: Human-derived dental pulp stem cells were isolated from healthy permanent teeth extracted for orthodontic or impeding eruption reasons, provided by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University. Long-term, large-scale in vitro expansion of DPSC was conducted. The study compared young DPSC (passage 5) with aged DPSC (passage 25) using cellular senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, colony formation assay, and Alizarin Red S staining for osteogenic differentiation induction. To assess the differences between the two cell populations in terms of senescence and amplification and differentiation ability. Medicine screening for the most effective senolytic was compared among 5 common senolytics [Navitoclax (ABT-263), curcumin, dasatinib, fisetin, and quercetin]. The clearance efficacy was compared using cellular senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining to reflect the changes in senescent cell ratio. The senolytic with the highest efficacy was chosen for further experiments. The passage at which the proportion of senescent cells significantly increased was identified, and the selected senolytic was administered three times at three-generation intervals from that passage to remove senescent cells. Both the control and senolytic-treated groups were estimated by fluorescence cellular senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), colony formation assay, wound healing assay, and Alizarin Red S staining for osteogenic differentiation induction. Subcutaneous heterotopic osteogenesis was performed in nude mice and the grafts were analyzed by HE staining and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) immunohistochemical staining. Results: The proportion of senescent cells increased as the expansion extended, leading to decreased proliferation and osteogenic differentiation ability of senescent DPSC compared to young DPSC (P<0.05). Senescent DPSC exhibited altered mRNA expression levels of senescence-related genes, including p21, p16INK4a, IL-6, and Ki67 (P<0.001). Among the five senolytics, ABT-263 had the biggest decreases in the proportion of senescent cells. After intermittent ABT-263 treatment during expansion, the proportion of senescent cells in the senolytic-treated group [(6.72±2.34)%] was significantly lower than that in the control group [(31.82±0.57)%] (P<0.001). RT-qPCR confirmed that compared with the control group, mRNA expressions of p21, p16INK4a, and IL-6 in the senolytic-treated group were significantly decreased (P<0.05), while mRNA expressions of Ki67 were significantly increased (P<0.01). Furthermore, the cell healing ability and osteogenic differentiation ability of the senolytic-treated group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). In vivo experimental results indicated that the relative new bone area [(2.36±0.48)%] after DPSC transplantation in the senolytic-treated group was greater than that in the control group [(1.00±0.46)%] (P<0.05), and the expression of ALP was higher than that in the control group (P<0.01). Conclusions: ABT-263 can effectively eliminate senescent cells in long-term large-scale DPSC expansion. Continuous treatment with ABT-263 during cultivation can maintain the proliferation and differentiation ability of DPSC both in vivo and in vitro.

Evaluating and Comparing the Tensile Strength and Clinical Behavior of Monofilament Polyamide and Multifilament Silk Sutures: A Systematic Review

Objective: This systematic review was carried out with the primary objective of verifying which suture (polyamide or silk) of two non-resorbable suture materials with different structures had better/greater tensile strength/resistance to tension, thereby presenting better mechanical behavior. The secondary objective was to verify which one had better performance. The null hypothesis was that both types of sutures had the same behavior. Methods: This systematic study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. The focused clinical question was: “In patients that underwent oral surgery treatment (P), is there significantly higher tensile strength/resistance for silk sutures (I) or for polyamide sutures (C) when comparing the outcomes (O)?” The bibliographic search was conducted on ScienceDirect, B-On, and PubMed/MedLine between March and May 2023. The following MeSH terms were defined: sutures, breaking strength, tensile strength, oral surgery, and dentistry, which were articulated and combined using Boolean operators. There were restrictions, such as articles published in Portuguese, Spanish, or English between 1 January 2018 and 3 April 2023. The quality assessment involved the use of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for RCTs and the QUIN tool (Quality Assessment Tool For In Vitro Studies) for in vitro assays. Results: Ten articles were included in this review (eight in vitro studies and two RCTs). For the RCTs, there were moderate and high levels of bias, whereas in the in vitro studies, three were classified as having a high risk of bias and five as moderate risk. The results proved that suture thread with a monofilament polyamide physical structure causes a less inflammatory reaction owing to less bacterial retention and capillarity, while multifilament sutures, such as silk, have superior mechanical characteristics. Regarding hydration, the evidence demonstrated that the preservation and stability of mechanical properties lacked uniformity. Otherwise, hyaluronic acid (HA) presents a promising solution with the same characteristics and antibacterial capabilities. Conclusion: It was possible to reject the null hypothesis that both types of sutures had the same behavior and result. It was proven by the results above that sutures with a monofilament polyamide physical structure cause a less inflammatory reaction owing to less bacterial retention and capillarity. In contrast, multifilament sutures (silk) have superior mechanical characteristics. Regarding hydration using chlorohexidine in surgical sites, the evidence demonstrated in the preservation and stability of mechanical properties lacks uniformity and congruence. However, HA seems to present a promising option with the same characteristics and antibacterial capabilities.

Longitudinal analysis of microcirculatory parameters in gingival tissues after tooth extraction in patients with different risk profiles for wound healing disorders – a pilot study

ObjectivesWe aimed to establish a risk profile for intraoral wound healing disorders based on measurements of microcirculation in gingival tissues.Materials and methodsOxygen saturation (SO2) and blood flow in gingival tissues were measured with tissue spectrometry and laser doppler spectroscopy in 37 patients before/after tooth extractions. Patients were assigned to four groups: anamnestically and periodontally healthy patients (n = 7), anamnestically healthy but suffering from periodontitis (n = 10), anamnestically healthy but smoking and suffering from periodontitis (n = 10) and suffering from diabetes and periodontitis (n = 10). Measurements were performed at three different time points: Baseline measurement (T0), one day post extractionem (p.e.) (T1) and seven days p.e. (T2).ResultsBaseline SO2 values were higher in control patients (p = .038). This effect was most evident in comparison to smokers suffering from periodontitis (p = .042), followed by diabetics suffering from periodontitis (p = .09). An opposite trend was seen for blood flow. Patients suffering from periodontitis demonstrated higher blood flow values (p = .012). Five patients, which belonged to the group of smokers suffering from periodontitis, showed clinically a delayed wound healing.ConclusionDifferences in SO2 and blood flow of gingival tissue could be detected in different groups of patients with existing periodontitis compared to control patients.Clinical RelevanceLower baseline SO2 values could be a warning signal for possible wound healing disorders after oral surgery.

Effect of oral intake initiation-establishment interval on hospital stay after oral cancer surgery.

To clarify the effect of the period between initiation of oral intake (IOI) and establishment of oral intake (EOI) on length of hospital stay. This retrospective study included postoperative oral cancer patients. The number of days from surgery to IOI and EOI and between IOI and EOI were recorded. We performed intergroup comparisons and Cox regression analysis using the number of days until discharge, representing hospital stay length as the dependent variable. The median number of days between IOI and EOI was 3 days for eligible patients and 4.5 and 1.5 for older and younger patients, respectively. The median number of days from surgery to IOI was 15 days. There was a significant correlation between the period between IOI and EOI and the length of hospital stay (r = 0.40, p < 0.01). The period between IOI and EOI was a significant independent variable for the length of hospital stay (HR [95% confidence interval] = 0.45 [0.28-0.72]). Shortening the IOI to EOI intervals was identified as an independently associated factor for shortening hospital stay, even in older postoperative patients with dysphagia who struggled with early oral intake initiation. Professional, step-by-step dysphagia rehabilitation tailored to the patient's condition yields beneficial outcomes.

Challenges Vietnamese EFL Students Faced When Learning and Meeting the Requirements of B1 English Language Proficiency

Learning and meeting the requirements of English language proficiency focused on the Western model of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) are required as essential learning outcomes of higher education programs for English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. However, university students may face difficulties in the process of learning and meeting the requirements of their English language proficiency. To address this gap, this descriptive study was conducted to explore the challenges Vietnamese EFL students encountered in learning and meeting the requirements of their English language proficiency. Participants were sixty Vietnamese EFL students majoring in Odonto-stomatology (Oral maxillofacial surgery) from a university in the Mekong Delta. Two core research instruments were utilized in this study consisting of a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. Results revealed that the challenges university students faced when learning and meeting the requirements of B1 English language proficiency were significant. It was challenging for university students to achieve level B1 English language proficiency within the CEFR of Vietnam in terms of test-related, candidate-related, and environment-related challenges. The findings of this study could assist students in being aware of their linguistic knowledge and necessary skills so that they have abilities to apply appropriate ways for learning and meeting the requirements of the standards of level B1 English language proficiency in the context of Vietnam.

The role of telehealth in the delivery of oral and maxillofacial surgery services at a level 6 hospital in New South Wales Australia during COVID-19 - the John Hunter Hospital experience: a commentary, review and cautionary tale for the future.

The objective of this article is to understand the uptake in use of Telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to provide compelling impetus for further research and promotion of Telehealth in general. A data review of Outpatient Department data from 2020 to 2023, as compiled by the Surgical Outcomes improvement Unit. Telehealth was widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic for clinicians to provide healthcare to patients whilst adhering to strict lockdown guidelines aimed at limiting exposure and spread of the respiratory virus. There has been minimal analysis, however, of the ethical and legal implications of telemedicine. Whilst it seems that access to care is improved via telehealth, there are subtle, inherent barriers intrinsic to it. There was a significant increase in the use of audio and audiovisual aids in the delivery of Oral and Maxillofacial Outpatient care during the COVID-19 period. Further analysis and improvements need to be made to the system before it can be considered as sufficient and adequate. Where there is rapid adoption of Telehealth in the delivery of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Services, there must be concurrent rigorous review and update of systems in order to address the key areas of patient safety and accuracy of treatment.