Knowledge and Awareness about Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques in Periodontics among Dental Students

Minimally invasive surgical techniques (MIST) are performed using magnification from surgical microscopes, surgical telescopes or endoscopic visualization. The exclusive property of MIST is that it reduces the chair time required to perform the procedure and results in limited morbidity to the patient during the surgical procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and awareness about minimally invasive surgical techniques in Periodontics among dental students. A 6-item questionnaire was prepared and circulated through an online portal among dental students. The results obtained from the survey were tabulated, analysed and represented graphically using SPSS software (Version 23). Frequency distribution and percentage were calculated. In the present study, 56% of them were aware about the implications of MIST in Periodontics, 73% of them knew the advantages of MIST and 53% of them were aware that MIST reduces healing period of the periodontal wounds. However, only 10% of them have performed MIST in periodontal procedures. The present study suggested that even though majority of the undergraduate dental students had adequate knowledge and awareness about MIST and its advantages; only very few had incorporated the technique in their practice. Therefore, this study emphasizes the need for more clinical training programs.