The Real Super Power of a Health Care Professional : Faith

In the world of oral & maxillofacial surgery, there are cases that truly redefine our understanding of human resilience and the transformative power of modern medicine. Today, I want to share with you an extraordinary story, one that revolves around a patient who had lost the ability to open her mouth for 15 long years due to bilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis. The testimony here is not about the surgery itself, but rather the part that inspired the patient and her family to seek treatment.

Her narrative is one of suffering, loneliness, and a life enslaved to an insidious illness. But I was able to encourage her and her family to take the brave and necessary step towards surgical treatment by using the strength of compassionate patient education and the potential of liberation. This is a testimony of the remarkable ability of medical professionals to transform lives, one surgical procedure at a time.

The Shackles of Bilateral TMJ Ankylosis

Before this remarkable journey began, my patient, Sulekha, had been living a life bound by the chains of her illness. For 15 long years, she couldn't open her mouth beyond a small gap that was almost invisible. It wasn't just the physical pain; it was the profound impact on her life that was most tragic.

I recall our initial consultation; Sulekha appeared visibly anxious and insecure. With a suppressed smile, she tried to communicate her concerns, which barely escaped her nearly closed lips. Her world was confined to soft, liquid foods. She struggled with basic tasks like speaking clearly, smiling confidently, and enjoying meals with her family. Her life had been significantly impaired by this debilitating condition, a predicament that had profound implications on her physical, emotional, and social well-being.

The first step in inspiring Sulekha to pursue surgical treatment was to empower her with knowledge; knowledge that was simple and clear. It was crucial to convey the gravity of the situation without overwhelming her, offering a glimmer of hope and a whole new perspective.

The Anatomy of TMJ Ankylosis

TMJ ankylosis is a condition in which the jaw joint becomes fused, resulting in limited jaw movement and mouth opening.

To truly grasp the necessity of treatment, Sulekha needed to comprehend the complexity of the human temporomandibular joint and the repercussions of its fusion. I demonstrated how the TMJ serves as a pivotal component in various everyday activities, from speaking and chewing to swallowing and even breathing.

Furthermore, I explained the potential reasons behind TMJ ankylosis. Trauma, infection, or systemic diseases can lead to the fusion of the jaw joint, incapacitating normal functions and causing substantial discomfort. This insight served as a foundation for Sulekha's understanding of her situation.

Perils of This?Disease

A patient with TMJ ankylosis faces several challenging issues that demand empathy and understanding. While it is essential to approach the subject with compassion, it is also crucial to acknowledge the perils they may encounter:

Limited Jaw Movement and Chronic Pain Management: Ankylosis restricts the movement of the jaw, sometimes to the point of complete immobility. This limitation can result in difficulties with speech, eating, and oral hygiene, significantly impeding the patient's ability to communicate and maintain proper nutrition. The individuals endure persistent discomfort and pain, making daily tasks and even eating a source of ongoing distress.

Impaired Nutritional Intake: The inability to open the mouth fully can hinder the intake of a balanced diet, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Adequate nutrition is crucial for overall health, so patients must navigate dietary restrictions and challenges.

Dental Issues: TMJ ankylosis often results in dental problems, such as misalignment of teeth, decay, and gum issues. Maintaining oral hygiene becomes a challenge, which can further exacerbate these problems.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A restricted airway caused by TMJ ankyloses and the small, underdeveloped mandible may contribute to OSA, and addressing both issues is essential.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: Patients may struggle with self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression due to their altered appearance and functional limitations.

Social Isolation: Due to the visible and functional changes caused by TMJ ankylosis, patients may feel self-conscious or experience social isolation. In India, there are numerous cultural and societal taboos surrounding marriage, which often have a profound impact on women's lives. Support from friends and family is crucial to help combat these feelings. Functional and aesthetic rehabilitation can boost one's self-image, leading to a more fulfilling life.

Treatment Challenges: Treating TMJ ankylosis often involves surgery and postoperative therapy, which can be physically and emotionally demanding. The recovery process is long and can be associated with discomfort and potential complications.

Financial Burden: Patients may face financial hardships as they seek care and manage ongoing healthcare needs.

Effective treatment for TMJ ankylosis requires a multi-disciplinary approach involving oral surgeons, dentists, and rehabilitation specialists.

Patient Education?-?The Impact of TMJ Ankylosis on Quality of?Life

To motivate Sulekha further, I highlighted the considerable impact TMJ ankylosis had on her life. She had been deprived of enjoying the simple pleasures of life, such as relishing her favorite meals, engaging in earnest conversations, and smiling wholeheartedly. The psychological toll was undeniable and pretty evident in her overall well-being.

Patient education necessitated a holistic approach. I shared stories of patients who had undergone successful surgery, emphasizing how their lives had been transformed. By witnessing these journeys of resilience and recovery, Sulekha could envision a brighter future, one in which she was liberated from the constraints of her condition.

The Holistic Approach to Patient Education

I began by listening to Sulekha's story. It was crucial for her to know that her experiences and emotions were valid. Her pain, frustration, and fear were not brushed aside. This empathetic listening laid the foundation for our partnership.

The next step was to provide a detailed explanation of her condition, which was already done in the beginning. Knowledge was the key to unlocking her determination.

To make the abstract tangible, I employed visual aids such as diagrams and 3D models to illustrate the surgical procedure. This allowed Sulekha to comprehend what lay ahead and to dispel some of the mystique surrounding the process.

It was vital to ensure Sulekha had realistic expectations. Surgery could not promise instantaneous freedom. I emphasized the gradual rehabilitation process and the need for patience. The prospect of seeing incremental progress along the way helped her stay motivated.

Sulekha, initially hesitant, asked a question that showed her burgeoning determination: "What if the surgery doesn't work?"

I responded with sincerity, explaining that, like all medical procedures, there were inherent risks, but success was overwhelmingly likely. It was the authenticity of our conversation, the mutual trust we'd built, and the knowledge she had acquired that convinced her to embrace the surgery.

The Surgical?Solution

Exploring surgical options with Sulekha was a critical aspect of her education. I elucidated the various surgical techniques available, highlighting the need for personalized treatment plans. It was vital to assure her that the surgery would be tailored to her specific condition, taking into account factors such as the extent of ankylosis, her overall health, and her goals for post-surgery life.

By delving into the surgical procedure in a clear and accessible manner, I aimed to demystify the process and dispel any fears she might have harbored.

The Importance of Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

Patient education didn't stop at the operating table. We discussed the significance of post-surgery rehabilitation and the commitment required on her part. I conveyed that her active participation in the rehabilitation process was pivotal in ensuring the best possible outcome. By explaining the exercises and dietary modifications that would aid in her recovery, I instilled in her a sense of agency and responsibility in her healing journey.

The Transformation in the Mind leads to Transformation of the?Body

To embark on this extraordinary journey of healing, it was imperative that Sulekha understood the severity of her condition, the surgical process, and the potential benefits. As a maxillofacial surgery PGT, my responsibility extended beyond just performing or assisting the surgery; it was essential to ensure Sulekha was a willing participant in her own transformation.

Her family, friends, and a network of support were integral to her success. As part of the patient education process, I encouraged her to engage her loved ones in her decision-making, explaining how their support could be an invaluable source of strength and motivation.

The Light at the End of the?Tunnel

By the time we concluded our discussions, Sulekha had evolved from a woman encaged by her condition to a person filled with hope and determination. Her belief in the possibility of reclaiming her life was unwavering, and she was prepared to face the surgical journey with courage.

In our professional lives, we often find ourselves serving as not just surgeons but also as guides and educators. Empowering patients like Sulekha with knowledge and understanding is paramount, as it lays the foundation for informed decision-making and fosters a sense of ownership over one's own health.

Today, Sulekha is no longer the woman she once was. She is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of education and support in the field of maxillofacial surgery. By understanding the gravity of her condition, the potential for transformation, and the unwavering support of her healthcare team and loved ones, Sulekha reclaimed her life. She broke free from the chains of her debilitating disease, emerging as an embodiment of strength, resilience, and showcasing the boundless possibilities of human strength.

This journey serves as a reminder that the healthcare profession is not just about treating ailments; it's about changing lives. By actively engaging with our patients, providing them with the knowledge they need, and fostering a partnership in their care, we can inspire them to take brave steps toward their own transformation. Sulekha's story is proof that, with compassionate care and unwavering support, we can break the chains that bind us and experience the joy of a life unburdened by illness.

Names have been changed for privacy purposes.