Abstract

VAN DER MERWE, Anke  and  BARNES, Roline. The development of a physiotherapy intervention programme for mandibular condyle fracture patients. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2016, vol.71, n.5, pp.212-217. ISSN 0375-1562.

INTRODUCTION: The need for physiotherapy in the treatment of mandibular condyle fractures has been highlighted, but there has been no agreement regarding an exercise programme for these patients. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to develop proposals for an appropriate program for patients who had sustained mandibular condyle fractures. DESIGN: Quantitative, non-experimental study, by means of a Delphi questionnaire. METHODS: Data obtained from the literature and a previously conducted needs analysis was used in compiling a Delphi questionnaire dealing with the type and dosage of a suitable physiotherapeutic treatment protocol. The questionnaire was distributed amongst 20 experts (national and international) in the fields of physiotherapy, maxillo-facial surgery and dental surgery. A convenience sampling method was used to select appropriately trained participants for the Delphi review pane.l RESULTS: The Delphi technique was used in the development of a suitable physiotherapy intervention program for mandibular condyle fracture patients. Inter-reviewer consensus was reached regarding the commencement and dosage of various jaw exercises, as well as what would constitute in-hospital physiotherapy visits. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed post-surgical intervention program could serve as a baseline for clinical implementation and in further research studies. The advantages of referring these patients to physiotherapy are also highlighted.

Keywords : mandibular condyle fractures; physiotherapy for mandibular condyle fracture rehabilitation for mandibular condyle fractures; temporomandibular joint; trismus.

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