ORIGINAL ARTICLE   

European Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 2018 April;2(1):1-12

DOI: 10.23736/S2532-3466.17.00129-1

Copyright © 2017 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

lingua: Inglese

Oral surgeons and oral maxillofacial surgeons: diverse population practicing in the European Union

Melanie N. NASSERIPOUR ✉

King’s College London Dental Institute, London, UK

BACKGROUND: This study focuses on the diversity of practicing oral and oral maxillo-facial surgeons in the European Union by examining the nature of their migration; their qualifying degree and specializing curricula; board certification; fields of practice; mandatory continuing education.
METHODS: Twenty-one countries in the five continents were selected and a questionnaire was sent to dental and/or medical councils and universities. An internet search of selected organizations and universities was performed, alongside a literature review and a survey of two different sources concerning complications of oral maxillofacial procedures.
RESULTS: This study has revealed that the majority of oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental graduates (50%), 27% are medical graduates, and 23% have dual qualification. Countries in Asia, Latin America, North America and the Scandinavian countries require initial dental qualifications. The majority of the specialization curriculum span 3 to 4 years and continuing education is compulsory for 75% of the countries.
CONCLUSIONS: There are major differences in the span of competencies between the countries of emigration and immigration, and in the profile of the specialists. In conclusion, we recommend the European harmonization of specialty training, board certification, mandatory continuing education and greater cooperation between licensing bodies using the European professional card.

KEY WORDS: European Union - Professional competence - Oral surgery - Ethics