# Perioperative knowledge needs in maxillofacial trauma patients: a cross-sectional survey

## TL;DR

This study explores the changing knowledge needs of maxillofacial trauma patients during recovery, showing that these needs vary by age and are highest in the first week after surgery.

## Contribution

The study identifies demographic variations in perioperative knowledge needs and validates a reliable survey instrument for assessing these needs.

## Key findings

- Patients showed significant variations in knowledge needs across different perioperative stages.
- Age significantly influenced knowledge needs related to postoperative care, medications, and scar prevention.
- Knowledge needs peaked during the first week after surgery, emphasizing the need for early personalized education.

## Abstract

Maxillofacial trauma poses a growing public health burden worldwide, yet the perioperative knowledge needs of affected patients are poorly understood across different demographic groups. This study aimed to evaluate the perioperative knowledge needs in patients with maxillofacial trauma across different demographic groups, while re-evaluating the reliability and validity of the research instrument.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 469 maxillofacial trauma patients at a tertiary stomatology hospital in Sichuan, using convenience sampling. Structural validity of the questionnaire was assessed via exploratory factor analysis (EFA), while reliability was evaluated through internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and split-half reliability. Non-parametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis H and Mann-Whitney U) were employed for inferential analysis.

The cohort comprised 64.2% (301/469) male participants, 77.4% (363/469) of whom were aged 16 years or younger. EFA revealed a six-dimensional structure that explained 69% of the variance. The questionnaire demonstrated strong reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.889, split-half = 0.780). Significant variations in knowledge needs were observed across the perioperative stages (p < 0.001). Age significantly influenced needs relating to routine postoperative care (p < 0.001), medications/secondary care (p < 0.005), and scar prevention/treatment (p < 0.001).

The knowledge needs of patients vary significantly according to their demographics, peaking during the first week after surgery. This highlights the importance of personalized patient education during the early stages of recovery.

Clinical Trial Registration No. ChiCTR2300079287, Registration Date 29 December 2023.