Systematic Mapping Review of Orthognathic Surgery (Protocol)

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Evidence Synthesis

Background:

• Orthognathic surgery (OS) involves complex procedures with various co-interventions and surgical modalities.
• A comprehensive understanding of the existing evidence base is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and guiding future research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically identify, describe, and organize the current evidence on co-interventions and surgical modalities in orthognathic surgery.
• To map the landscape of research concerning different surgical approaches and their associated outcomes.
• To identify research gaps and prioritize future investigation in orthognathic surgery.

Main Methods:

• A systematic mapping review methodology will be employed.
• An exhaustive search strategy will cover multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, etc.) and grey literature.
• Inclusion criteria encompass systematic reviews, RCTs, and observational studies evaluating perioperative OS co-interventions and surgical modalities.

Main Results:

• The review will generate PICO questions relevant to orthognathic surgery evidence.
• Evidence bubble maps will be created, illustrating co-interventions, surgical modalities, and outcomes.
• Identification of research gaps and prioritization of new research questions will be achieved.

Conclusions:

• This systematic mapping review will provide a comprehensive characterization of the available evidence in orthognathic surgery.
• It aims to reduce research waste by highlighting existing knowledge and guiding future study development.
• The findings will inform clinical practice and direct future research efforts towards unresolved questions in OS.