Background: Orotracheal intubation has been considered a risk factor for the development or exacerbation of disorders related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate TMJ assessment performed by anesthetists in Florida when conducting orotracheal intubation. Methods: An online questionnaire was created using Qualtrics. The survey included 22 questions related to demographics, TMJ related to anesthesia procedures, and education/awareness regarding TMJ related to intubation. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation analysis were performed. Results: One hundred and eight providers participated (mean 46 years-old ± 12; 59% female). About 50% reported to always evaluate TMJ prior non-emergency intubation. Of those, 56% used an alternative intubation technique based on the TMJ status and 60% never/rarely evaluated TMJ post-intubation. Twenty-five percent reported they did not know of possible intubation effects on TMJ and 47% reported that they did not receive adequate information/education on TMJ management related to intubation in school. After participation, 81% reported to be more aware of the importance of evaluating TMJ. Conclusions: Only half of the providers who frequently performed intubation in Florida evaluated TMJ prior to intubation. This survey increased the awareness regarding the importance of evaluating TMJ when conducting intubation. This may contribute to reducing TMJ issues associated with non-emergency intubations.

Orotracheal intubation is a procedure that is considered a risk factor for the development of disorders related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A proper TMJ assessment is required before and after inducing anesthesia to minimize temporomandibular complications. The objective of this pilot study was to assess the education, awareness, and confidence of anesthesia providers nationwide when evaluating TMJ in patients undergoing non-emergency orotracheal intubation. An online survey was created, including 21 questions related to: demographics, work experience, self-perceived knowledge and adequacy of entry-level education, awareness of TMJ risks, and current confidence levels on evaluating TMJ. A total of 36 anesthesia providers participated (47 ±12 years; 73% female, 27% male). 89% of the participants (26) reported receiving somewhat or very little adequate information on the management of TMJ issues related to intubation throughout their entry-level education. Only 38% (11) reported feeling confident in evaluating TMJs. Of those who were not confident, 28% (6) referred patients to another provider. The majority of the anesthesia providers did not receive adequate information on the management of TMJ issues in relation to intubation during their education. This lack of knowledge and awareness may have contributed to their lack of confidence in evaluating TMJs. After taking the survey, all participants felt more aware about the importance of proper education in TMJ evaluations before and after non-emergency orotracheal intubation. The survey helped increase awareness in anesthesia providers regarding the importance of evaluating TMJ when conducting intubation.