Dentistry

The development of a physiotherapy intervention program for mandibular condyle fracture patients

American World Dentistry

November 13-14, 2017 San Antonio, USA

Anke Van Der Merwe

University of the Free State, South Afrcia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Dentistry

Abstract:

Introduction: The need for physiotherapy intervention in the treatment of mandibular condyle fractures has been highlighted. No unifying criteria are currently available regarding a post-surgical functional exercise program for patients who sustained mandibular condyle fractures. Aims & Objectives: The study aimed to develop a proposed post-operative functional exercise program for patients who sustained mandibular condyle fractures. Design: Quantitative, non-experimental study, by means of a Delphi questionnaire. Methods: Data obtained from literature and a previously conducted needs analysis was used to compile the Delphi questionnaire with statements regarding the type and dosage of a suitable physiotherapeutic treatment protocol. The questionnaire was distributed amongst 20 experts (national and international) in the fields of physiotherapy, maxillo-facial surgery and dental surgery. A convenience sampling method was used to select appropriately trained participants for the Delphi review panel. Results: By utilizing the Delphi technique, a suitable physiotherapy intervention program for mandibular condyle fracture patients was developed. Inter-reviewer consensus was reached regarding what each exercise entails, as well as what in-hospital physiotherapy visits should be comprised of. Stability was reached regarding the commencement and dosage of the various jaw exercises. Conclusions: Experts in the field proposed that physiotherapists should provide post-operative rehabilitative therapy for mandibular condyle fracture patients. The proposed post-surgical intervention program provided in this study can serve as a baseline for implementation in further research studies. The advantages of referring mandibular condyle fracture patients to physiotherapy were also presented.

Biography :

Anke Van Der Merwe has completed her MSc degree in Physiotherapy in 2013 at the University of the Free State and is currently enrolled as a PhD student at the same university. She is a Lecturer in the Department of Physiotherapy in the cardiopulmonary field. She has published two papers in the South African Dental Journal and serves on the Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee.