Evaluation of the Prescription Patterns of Antibiotics among Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in Canada

Abstract

Background: The rise in bacterial resistance is attributed to the inappropriate or unnecessary use of antibiotics. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the current knowledge and antibiotic prescription patterns among Canadian oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Methods: A web-based survey featuring 17 clinical scenarios was distributed to active oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Canada. The sample group was asked questions about their management these clinical scenarios. Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed (P ≤ .05). Results: More than half of the prescriptions were generated in clinical scenarios where there is little evidence to support their use. Most prescriptions followed the correct antibiotic regimen. Clinicians with a limited scope of practice had a significantly higher overprescribing index rate than those with a more extensive scope of practice. Conclusion: Improving the available evidence and ensuring that all practitioners have up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines could help minimize unnecessary antibiotic use.