Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Team Anesthesia Model and Anesthesia Assistant Training

The model for oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) delivery of office-based, open airway anesthesia has morphed from the operator-anesthetist to the delivery of team anesthesia, supporting a widespread focus on organizational aspects of the delivery of care. The training, continuing education, and coordination of a diverse anesthesia team provides a system to improve the safety and efficacy of anesthesia delivery. The hallmarks of this system include communication, checks and balances, monitoring, team dynamics, protocols, emergency scenario preparation and rehearsal, and crisis resource management during an emergent situation. This system contributes to and continually supports a culture of safety in the OMFS office.