Infection Control Measures practiced by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Aim: Since the source of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), it has become global health emergency. It is life threatening condition and dentistry has been classified as the high-risk job let alone be the oral and maxillofacial surgeons, because of direct exposure to blood and saliva. The standard although are good are not sufficient during the pandemic like COVID-19. Adequate screening as well as the proper infection control measures are recommended. To know Infection control measures practiced by oral and maxillofacial surgeons during COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 353 oral maxillofacial surgeons to know the infection control measures practiced by them during COVID pandemic. Results: This study shows that majority of infection control measures were practiced more in government hospitals when compared to private hospitals Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis was used. Statistical significance was set at p <0.05. Conclusion This study highlights that oral and maxillofacial surgeon practicing infection control measures like use of prophylactic medication, high volume extra oral suction, negative pressure room, use of heap filters, fumigation system, and use of chemicals for disinfection were less likely to be affected by COVID-19. Clinical significance: The findings of this study will help us to provide practical advice to oral surgeons regarding appropriate use of infection control measures to protect themselves from the risk of COVID-19 infection during surgical procedures.