Epidemiological profile and clinical management of patients with intellectual disability treated under general anesthesia: a 10-year retrospective study

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Dental care for individuals with intellectual disability (ID) represents a challenge due to difficulties in cooperation and associated comorbidities, making general anesthesia (GA) a frequently employed strategy to ensure safety and effectiveness of treatment. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile, indications for GA, and dental procedures performed in patients with ID treated under GA at the the Dental Care Center for People with Disabilities (CAOE) of São Paulo State University (UNESP). Material and method: This was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection from 2014 to 2024, based on the dental records of 182 patients. Demographic and clinical variables were analyzed, including primary diagnosis, systemic comorbidities, indication for GA, procedures performed, and frequency of interventions per patient. Result: The mean age was 25.9 ± 12.1 years, with a predominance of males (57%). Most patients presented only one neurological diagnosis (89%), with intellectual developmental disorder being the most frequent (43%). The main reason for GA indication was failure of intravenous sedation (43%), followed by the need for multiple extractions (41%). Conclusion: The high frequency of single-session extractions highlights the advanced stage of oral diseases and underscores the importance of the hospital environment in resolving such cases. The findings reinforce the need for early preventive strategies and support the planning of public policies and care protocols aimed at promoting oral health and quality of life in this population.