Abuja: The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) recently held its Quarterly Hospital Grand Round, emphasizing the crucial role of oral and maxillofacial surgery in transforming facial appearance, function, and psychological well-being.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, which took place at Hall 36 of the hospital, was themed ‘Faces, Feelings and Function: The Pivotal Role of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.’ It was organized by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and attended by healthcare professionals, administrators, students, and trainees. The discussions highlighted the significant impact of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in restoring facial form and function.
Prof. Ayodeji Oluwole, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, welcomed attendees and praised the Department for selecting a topic that emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in managing complex facial conditions. He stressed the role of continuous medical education in improving patient care and promoting knowledge sharing across specialties.
Dr. Rachel Babayomi delivered the first presentation, ‘The Face and Its Function,’ explaining the face’s central role in human identity, communication, and survival. She detailed how the facial skeleton provides the structural framework for facial appearance, and the attached muscles enable various facial expressions. Babayomi emphasized the protective role of the face and its indispensable functions like vision, hearing, smell, taste, and touch.
In a presentation titled ‘Aetiology of Facial Deformities,’ Dr. Fatima Kyari addressed the complexities of facial deformities, which affect both appearance and essential functions. She used clinical cases from LUTH to explain the impact of congenital abnormalities on facial growth and development, noting that over 400 syndromes worldwide are associated with craniofacial deformities. Kyari also discussed the burden of facial trauma due to various causes, emphasizing the role of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in managing these complex emergencies.
Dr. Olumide Okeowo’s presentation, ‘Facial Deformity, Self-Perception and Mental Health,’ explored the psychological consequences of facial deformities. He noted that changes in facial appearance often lead to diminished self-esteem, social withdrawal, and mental health issues. Okeowo highlighted the challenges faced by children and adults with facial deformities, including teasing, bullying, and social discrimination.
Prof. Olutayo James, Head of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, delivered the final presentation, summarizing the discussions and reaffirming the Department’s commitment to providing world-class care for patients with facial deformities. He outlined the advanced reconstructive procedures offered by LUTH, including hard and soft tissue reconstruction, orthognathic surgery, and maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation. James also highlighted the work of the Department’s Oral and Maxillofacial Prosthetics Laboratory in fabricating prosthetic devices for patients in need.
The Grand Round underscored LUTH’s dedication to clinical excellence, professional development, research, and innovation, showcasing the hospital’s capacity to provide comprehensive care for individuals with complex craniofacial conditions.