Current Research Interests

Research is an essential activity of an Academic Unit in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Some of the previous research activities at The University of Adelaide are as follows:

Temporomandibular Joint - Animal Model

Several models of internal derangement, osteoarthritis and ankylosis have been developed. These pathologic joints are then used to further understanding of the pathophysiology of the conditions. They are also used to evaluate various means of surgical reconstruction. This ongoing project involves the Aichi-Gakuin and Gifu Universities in Japan, and the Bioengineering Centre of the Orthopaedic Department at the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH).

Temporomandibular Joint - Clinical Trials

A number of prospective trials of various treatment methods are in progress. These include arthroscopy, temporalis muscle reconstruction, open reduction of fracture dislocations and TMJ implants.

Hyperbaric Oxygen

The role of hyperbaric oxygen in the prevention and management of radionecrosis is being evaluated in a retrospective trial with the Hyperbaric Unit, RAH. A prospective trial is underway into the effect of hyperbaric treatment of patients with radiation induced xerostomia.

Orthognathic Surgery - Relapse

A key issue is the stability, or lack of it, with various orthognathic procedures. A two year post operative follow up study has been completed on mandibular advancements, and a similar trial is in progress on setback procedures. These studies have been conducted in conjunction with the Anthropology Unit of the Dental School.  

Psychologic Assessment

It is well accepted that psychologic assessment is essential for chronic pain patients. A modified form of this assessment has been applied prospectively to orthognathic surgical patients. This was a much better predictor of patient satisfaction than the technical quality of the operation. A simplified questionnaire, suitable for use in private practice, is under development.

Implants

A fifteen year follow-up of the transmandibular implant has been finalised. Currently hydroxyapatite coated titanium implants are used and the prospective trials have reached five years, with a 90% plus functional integration of fixtures. Extra oral implants are also being evaluated. This study is co-ordinated by the maxillofacial prosthodontist.  

Sleep Apnoea

Cephalometric studies on Sleep Apnoea patients have been completed. Jaw repositions by either devices or surgery and an ongoing study on bimaxillary surgery is in progressThese studies are in collaboration with the Thoracic Medicine and Otorhinolaryngology Unit of the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Patient Controlled Sedation

Most dentoalveolar surgery requiring hospitalisation is done using intravenous techniques on a day surgery basis at the RAH. In particular, the recovery rate, both physical and behavioural, from a patient controlled sedative technique, is being evaluated. Thus far it has been shown to have considerable advantages over other techniques. These studies are being performed in association with the Anaesthetics and Psychology Departments at the RAH and The University of Adelaide.

Professional Education

The least researched area in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is the effect of changes in education on professional scope and practice. The ANZAOMS Workforce Study was conducted by The Dental Statistics and Research Unit of The University of Adelaide, with a Consultancy from the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit. Bisphosphonate induced osteonecrosis of the jaws is currently being investigated clinically and in basic laboratory studies. The full list of unit publications is available on requestThese are just the current and major areas of investigation. A number of other trials are under consideration, student electives underway and Case Studies of unusual cases are published as they arise. Any Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon requiring further details, or who would like advice on a project of their own, is welcome to contact Professor Alastair Goss. Telephone (08) 8303 5103 & Fax (08) 8303 4402. oral.surgery@adelaide.edu.au.