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Drug abuse in oral and maxillofacial training programs
Summary
Drug dependence is a concern in oral and maxillofacial surgery programs. Over half of surveyed programs reported suspected drug abuse incidents, with meperidine and fentanyl being common substances.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Substance Abuse
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Anesthetic and sedative drugs pose risks of dependence in medical specialties.
- Previous concerns focused on other specialties with constant drug exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) programs regarding drug dependence among residents.
- To assess the prevalence and nature of suspected drug abuse in OMFS training.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 116 oral and maxillofacial surgery programs.
- Response rate was 78.5%, with data collected on suspected and confirmed drug dependence incidents.
Main Results:
- 51% of responding programs reported at least one suspected drug dependence incident.
- Twenty-six confirmed cases of drug abuse were reported.
- Meperidine and fentanyl were the most frequently abused substances; behavioral changes and co-worker reports led to confrontations.
Conclusions:
- Drug abuse may be more prevalent in OMFS programs than previously recognized.
- The level of drug abuse in OMFS appears comparable to anesthesia training programs.
- Further investigation and support systems are needed for residents in OMFS programs.