# Professional Perspectives and Research Challenges Among AO CMF Surgeons in the Middle East and North Africa

## TL;DR

This study explores research engagement and challenges among oral and craniomaxillofacial surgeons in the Middle East and North Africa.

## Contribution

It identifies barriers to research and highlights the need for mentorship and training in the MENA region.

## Key findings

- Most surgeons expressed strong interest in research but struggled to initiate projects.
- Common barriers included research methodology, publishing, and manuscript writing.
- High demand for mentorship and low awareness of AO PEER were observed.

## Abstract

Purpose: Research drives clinical advancement in oral and craniomaxillofacial surgery by generating evidence that guides practice and innovation. However, limited literature exists describing research engagement among surgeons within AO CMF in the Middle East and North Africa. This study evaluated awareness, participation, and perceived barriers to research among AO CMF members and affiliated surgeons in the MENA region. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was distributed electronically to AO CMF members, affiliates, and professional CMF surgeon networks between October and December 2024. The 14-item survey assessed demographics, research awareness, attitudes, productivity, and barriers. Responses were anonymized and analyzed descriptively using SurveyPlanet analytics. Results: A total of 144 surgeons from 21 countries completed the survey. Pakistan (35%), Morocco (9.8%), Kuwait (7.7%), and the United Arab Emirates (7%) contributed the largest proportions. Most respondents (47.6%) expressed strong interest in research but reported difficulty initiating projects, while 32.2% cited lack of time as a major constraint. The most frequently reported barriers included challenges in research methodology (14.6%), publishing (14.6%), and manuscript writing (14.1%). Only 18.9% of participants had published more than ten articles, while 29.4% had none. Mentorship demand was high (94.4%), but awareness of the AO PEER program remained limited (37.8%). Conclusion: Surgeons expressed strong enthusiasm for research yet face substantial barriers. Strengthening research methodology training, establishing structured mentorship, expanding AO PEER engagement, and facilitating multicenter collaboration are key strategies to enhance research productivity across the region.