Assessing Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery Specialty among Jumc Medical Professionals

Abstract

Background : Oral and maxillofacial surgery specialty has grown rapidly in Ethiopia in recent years. However, the healthcare professionals specifically medical professionals remain unaware of its expanding scope of practice. This study aimed to assess professionals (dental and medical)knowledge, attitude and perception toward the oral and maxillofacial surgical specialty in JUMC. Methods : This study used a descriptive survey method to collect quantitative data from dental interns, medical interns, dental general practitioners, and medical general practitioners at Jimma University Medical Center. The study was conducted between March and April 2024, and a sample of 198 participants was selected using simple random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data, and descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed to analyze the data and understand the knowledge, attitude, and perception of medical professionals.. Results: The data reveals that a high percentage of participants demonstrated knowledge in different aspects of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS). For example, 197 participants (99.5%) were aware that OMFS is a specialty branch of dentistry, and 195 participants (98.5%) recognized various treatment modalities offered by OMFS. Moreover, 160 participants (80.8%) knew that oral and maxillofacial surgeons have advanced their surgical skills, extending their expertise from tooth extraction to microvascular reconstruction of jaw defects. However, there were areas where participants showed less certainty, such as 22 participants (11.1%) being unsure about the management of common oral and maxillofacial conditions, and 62 (31.3%) and 67 (33.8%) participants being unsure about the roles of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in treating facial fractures and lacerations, respectively. Additionally, the data reveals that 15 participants (7.6%) were unaware of the growing usage of orthognathic and cosmetic surgery in the area, and 37 participants (18.7%) were unaware of the progress of surgical abilities in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Conclusions and recommendation: Participants generally demonstrate a high level of knowledge and awareness OMFS, but there are areas of uncertainty. Ongoing education is needed to address knowledge gaps. Positive attitudes towards OMFS and interdisciplinary collaboration exist, but acceptance of patient referrals to OMFS can be improved. Recommendations include targeted education, promoting collaboration, addressing misconceptions, and enhancing understanding among healthcare professionals to enhance patient care and outcomes.