Orthognathic surgery: a new preoperative informed consent model

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Medical Ethics
• Informed Consent

Background:

• Previous informed consent models for orthognathic surgery have limitations.
• A 2004 study proposed a two-part consent form.
• Clinical practice over four years identified drawbacks in the existing model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a revised informed consent form for orthognathic surgery.
• To enhance patient comprehension of surgical risks.
• To mitigate surgeon liability for omissions.

Main Methods:

• Modification of an existing two-part informed consent form.
• Replacement of 'temporomandibular joint disorders' with 'postoperative temporomandibular joint derangement'.
• Expansion of 'tooth and periodontal disease' to 'tooth damage, avulsion, and periodontal disease'.

Main Results:

• The revised form provides more specific information on potential complications.
• Patients receive clearer warnings about risks such as condylar dislocations and dental avulsions.
• The updated form aims for better patient understanding of orthodontic/surgical therapy risks.

Conclusions:

• The proposed informed consent form improves patient awareness of orthognathic surgery risks.
• Enhanced disclosure protects surgeons from potential legal repercussions.
• The revised form supports ethical patient management in complex surgical procedures.