Patient information and patient preparation in orthognathic surgery: A medical audit study

Abstract

SummaryIn 110 patients who had undergone various kinds of orthognathic surgery, patient satisfaction was measured by means of a written questionnaire. Ninety-four percent expressed satisfaction, both with regard to total preparation and the final outcome of the surgical procedure itself. Twenty to forty percent of the patients, however, were not properly informed about postoperative complications. On the basis of the deficiencies, indicated in the questionnaire, appropriate written information was developed. In the near future the effect of the recently added information will be investigated.

Total Quality Management in Plastic Surgery

“…28 The patient preparation for surgery by providing him/her with information manual was appreciated by patients in studies; however, it was found poorer regarding its influence on patient preparation for surgery, and verbal effective communication with the surgeon remains the key to patient preparation. 29 Surgeons must have the proof that they had provided all needed information about the surgeries and the expected complications. The patients who cannot express themselves for various reasons can be treated without expressing consent, depending on the situation and hospital policy.…”

Informed Consent in Orthognathic Surgery

“…4,7 In contrast, other authors stress the importance of personal surgeon-patient communication as superior to written information. 10,11 We think that the use of written information, audiovisual recordings, and other decision aids, as an adjunct to face-toface discussions, may strengthen the patient's ability to make an informed decision, and we also think that surgeons and patients should always remember that the patient-doctor relationship should be based on trust.…”

Coping with the Complexities of Informed Consent in Dermatologic Surgery

“…In addition to protecting this fundamental right, a substantial number of studies have shown that providing information to surgery patients has a positive effect on postoperative management and progress. These studies indicate that informed patients experience less anxiety, 17 are more compliant with instructions, 18–22 and express greater satisfaction with the result of surgery 23–26 . These are important concerns to any surgeon—particularly those who perform elective or cosmetic procedures where patient satisfaction is such a crucial factor.…”