Design of a scale for measuring post-surgical complications in third molar surgery

The aim of this study was to design a scale for measuring the extent and severity of post-surgical complications in third molar surgery. A multi-stage study using a quantitative methodology and qualitative interview strategy was employed. The degree of importance of signs and symptoms in the evaluation of post-surgical complications was initially observed using a self-report questionnaire administered to maxillofacial surgeons and surgical residents at the International Conference of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in 2011. Then, using exploratory factor analysis, the items and components of the scale were established, with internal consistency determined using Cronbach's alpha. Finally, a group of experts performed a face validity analysis and provided conceptual definitions for the items and components. Thirty-six signs and symptoms were evaluated by 100 respondents, with the most relevant being 'suppuration' and 'abscess'. Factor analysis of the results identified three factors, defined as 'secondary complication', 'soft tissue infection', and 'osseous involvement' (Cronbach's alpha>0.7). Finally, a preliminary scale was designed comprised of these three components and 10 items. In this way, a preliminary scale for measuring post-surgical complications was designed to standardize the semiological concepts of post-surgical assessment. This scale will be assessed in a future investigation.