An Audit of Orthodontic Cases treated at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The importance oforthodontic treatment audit cannot be overemphasized. Apart from providing a feedback, it also helps to maintain, monitor and promote treatment standards . The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of orthodontic treatment outcome at OAUTHC Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
Method: The sample consisted of randomly selected pre and post treatment study models of patients seen in 2011 to 2013. The patients had complete records documenting the treatment carried out by both orthodontic trainees and trainers. Information obtained from the records included, age, sex and dental personnel that carried out the treatment. The Peer Assessment Rating Index (PAR) was used to assess the treatment outcome .
Results: Thirty cases were selected within the 2 year period. There were 16(53.3%) males and 14(46.7%) females and within the age range of 9-33years (mean age16.8 +/5.7).Generally,there was a significant improvement in treatment outcome with over 80% falling into the highly improved category. There were no significant differences in the treatment outcomes according to age group, gender and dental personnel involved in the treatment .
Conclusion: This study concluded that cases managed at the Orthodontic Unit of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Ile-Ife Osun State, were treated to an acceptable occlusion and alignment. Patients motivation and cooperation during treatment may have contributed greatly towards achieving desired treatment goals and outcome.