Assessment of children prior to dental extractions under general anaesthesia in Scotland

To determine the type of dental assessment service offered to children prior to exodontia under chair dental general anaesthesia (CDGA) in the community and hospital dental services (CDS, HDS) in Scotland.

Telephone interviews were conducted with CDS and HDS clinical directors in Scotland using a semi-structured questionnaire, with written follow-up confirmation. Copies of CDGA referral forms were also requested.

All clinical directors, or their nominated deputies, participated (n = 21). Almost half of interviewees indicated that their area offered a "dedicated" pre-CDGA assessment service (n = 10). A range of grades was identified amongst assessors; a minority were described as "specialist paediatric staff". The availability of CDGA alternatives, including local analgesia and conscious sedation varied. Changes to the referral treatment plan were reported to occur "sometimes" or "often" by 11 interviewees regarding the anaesthetic used, and by 16 respondents regarding the number of teeth extracted. The content of CDGA referral forms was diverse.

The method of referral and assessment of children for CDGA in Scotland is diverse, partly reflecting geographic limitations and local need. Guidance on pre-GA assessment, including use of standardised referral forms, may reduce variation and improve the quality of the pathway of care.