Introduction: There is considerable variation in the reporting of treatment outcomes in
endodontics. Patient-centered outcomes are often inadequately reported in endodontic
outcome studies. This paper explores patients’ expectations and reported outcomes in
nonsurgical root canal treatment (NS-RCT), nonsurgical root canal retreatment (NS-ReTx),
and endodontic microsurgery (EMS).
Methods: We used a qualitative description approach and conducted telephone and virtual semi-structured interviews with participants who had the following treatments within the preceding 3–12 months: NS-RCT (n 5 10), NS-ReTx (n 5 10), or EMS (n 5 10). Half of these treatments were performed by senior endodontic residents in an academic setting and the other half by a community-based endodontist at a private practice.
Results: Participants identified several outcomes that were important to them and
integral to treatment success, such as tooth survival, resolution of symptoms, aesthetics, and
radiographic healing. Process-related factors were as important as treatment outcomes for
participants. Communicating with and educating patients during treatment increased participants’ satisfaction and lowered their stress. Dissatisfaction was linked to the lack of a
comprehensive treatment and follow-up plan. Thorough planning ensured that patients
were fully informed and had a structured approach to achieving their desired outcomes.
Conclusions: This study provides a list of outcomes that are important for patients undergoing
NS-RCT, NS-ReTx, and EMS. These outcomes should be considered when developing a core outcome set related to endodontic treatments. Additionally, this study reports patients’ expectations regarding process-related factors that are essential for providing patient-centered care and improving patient experience. (J Endod 2023;49:1289–1298.)
Maryam Zanjir, Amir Azarpazhooh, Yasaman Hosseini, Elaine Cardoso, Carilynne Yarascavitch, Prakesh S. Shah, Joanna Sale
Disease Category: Dentistry & oral health
Disease Name: Endodontics
Age Range: 18 - 120
Sex: Either
Nature of Intervention: Procedure
- Consumers (patients)
- Patient perspectives
- Interview
We used a qualitative description approach and conducted telephone and virtual semi-structured interviews