Evaluation of awareness and knowledge regarding mandibular reconstruction in interns and postgraduates: A cross-sectional study

Many conditions such as malignancy, osteomyelitis, osteonecrosis, or osteoradionecrosis affect oral cavity particularly the jaw by impairing the bone formation and resorption process. Eradication of these conditions may sometimes require resection of whole of jaw bone or a part of it. Reconstruction or rehabilitation of the lost part is necessary for higher quality of life. Hence, it is important to bring this topic to limelight and evaluate the level of knowledge. Furthermore, it is important to assess awareness present among interns and postgraduates (PGs) for the reconstruction techniques. The overarching aim of this study was to conduct a survey to evaluate the awareness and knowledge regarding different mandibular reconstruction among interns and PGs. An online questionnaire-based study using Google forms was carried out among interns and PGs of VSPM’s dental college and research center. General characteristics, designation, reconstruction techniques, goals and criteria for reconstruction, grafts, and classification of defects were assessed. A total of 100 participants participated in the survey. About 50% among them were interns and 50% were PG students. About 92% of PG participants were aware about the different mandibular techniques, while among the interns only 88% were aware. A significant difference existed in responses collected from interns and postgraduate. PG students were more aware about the reconstruction and rehabilitation options. Further, upgradement of technologies in this field can improve quality of life of cancer patients and dentist can help to provide it. Knowledge and attitude toward rehabilitation can improve the promptness of delivery of health services.