54 - Decisional Conflict and Regret following Dental Treatment under General Anesthesia

Abstract:

Purpose: The aims of this survey-based study are to evaluate decisional conflict (DC) and decisional regret (DR) among parents of children receiving dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia (DGA) and identify associated care-related factors.

Methods: A postoperative survey, including validated DC and DR scales, was administered to 101 caregivers of children who underwent DGA at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Measures included prevalence of DC and DR and associated factors. Statistical analysis was conducted (α = 0.05).

Results: Of 101 caregivers (7.3% response rate), 16% reported DC, and 19% experienced DR. A strong correlation was found between DC and DR (OR: 23.9, 95% CI: 5.6 - 128.7]; p < 0.001). DC was more common among Caucasian than Hispanic caregivers (61% vs. 25%; P = .019). DR was higher among Asian than Hispanic caregivers (21% vs. 5%; P = .04). Postoperative pain (P = 0.01) and behavioral changes (P = 0.03) were key contributors to DR.

Conclusion: DC and DR are prevalent among parents of children undergoing DGA with significant differences by ethnicity and postoperative complications. Future research should explore longitudinal assessments and decision aids to improve parental confidence and satisfaction with DGA.