Mandibular reconstruction: a new defect classification system

This paper presents a new mandibular segmental defect classification system (La-Co-CE) with a view to highlight the complexity and difficulty of the reconstruction with free autogenous bone grafts which the most frequently used method for surgeons practicing in developing countries. We submit that defect classification systems will continue to remain relevant if surgeons are to is pre-operatively classify the envisaged operative difficulty and objectively compare the outcome postoperatively

Plunging ranula: A report of two cases

Plunging ranula, a rare differential diagnosis of cervicofacial masses is presented in two Nigerian patients. The authors highlight the pathophysiology and treatment methods of this condition. It is suggested that clinicians be aware of the various modes of presentation and natural history of the disease to facilitate prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.,br> (East African Medical Journal: 2002 79(1): 51-53

Postgraduate trainees’ perceptions of the learning environment in a Nigerian teaching hospital

Background. The learning environment represents various factors that describe the learner’s experiences in that setting. The learning environment of junior doctors undergoing training programmes in hospitals is considered a major factor determining both academic success and health service delivery performance. Increased performance in both areas requires routine assessment of the learning environment to identify components that need attention.Objective. To evaluate the perception of junior doctors undergoing specialist training regarding the learning environment in a teaching hospital.Methods. This was a single-centre, cross-sectional study, using the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM). The questionnaire was used to collect data on the learning environment of junior doctors in all 10 clinical departments at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. All of the junior doctors (n=148) in the hospital at the time of the study received the questionnaire; they constituted the sample size for the survey. Data collected were analysed to assess junior doctors’ perceptions of the overall learning environment and of the individual factors in the learning environment as measured by the individual items of PHEEM.Results. The hospital educational environment was rated high, with a score of 98.25. The domains of the environment measure also showed positive perceptions, but revealed specific areas in need of attention as measured by the items of the questionnaire. Significant (p<0.05) differences were noted in the perceptions of some items of the environment in the clinical departments.Conclusions. The junior doctors’ perceptions of their educational environment were positive. The study was able to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses in the overall hospital learning environment and the specialty departments. Overall, it identified the absence of an informative handbook for junior doctors and quality accommodation and catering facilities when the doctors were on call, as well as excess workload and lack of counselling services as areas that require the most attention to improve the learning environment

Clinical options for mandibular reconstruction: A review

This paper reviewed the different clinical options for reconstruction of segmental defects of the mandible. The options reviewed included no reconstruction; the use of prosthetic implants (alloplasts); autogenous bone grafts; combination of allopplasts with autografts; free pedicled compound grafts;combination of homografts and autografts; distraction osteogenesis; and tissue engineering. The goal, objectives, criteria for success of autogenous and alloplastic reconstructions were highlighted as well as the factors that may influence the choice of a particular method