Year : 2019

Volume : Volume 10

Issue : Issue 3s

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Tanzeem Ahmed.
tanzeemahmed@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  It is a known fact that there is a relatively high risk of dental trauma during endotracheal intubation. However, to our knowledge, there are very few studies available regarding the awareness of the anaesthetists in India about dental injuries. To evaluate the awareness among the anaesthetists about perianaesthetic oro-dental injuries, the risk factors associated and the measures taken by them to prevent it. Materials and methods: Fifty anaesthetists in Hyderabad were selected by simple random sampling technique to participate in the study. A questionnaire was mailed to them to which they had to reply in a given time period. The data collected was analysed using statistical package Medcalc (Version 12.7.0.0) Results: Injury to the lip was found to be the most common injury; upper left incisor was the most frequently injured tooth; most of the participants used padding of teeth as a measure to prevent dental trauma. However, many of them did not take any precautions. The management of such injuries was also found to be inadequate. Conclusion: There is a definite need to increase awareness among the anaesthetists regarding dental injuries occurring during anaesthesia.

Keywords: Peri-anaesthetic, Oro-Dental injuries, General Anesthetists.