PRE-OPERATIVE HEMATOLOGICAL EVALUATION IN DENTAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES: PREVENTION AND RISK MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Introduction: Complementary examinations are essential to identify conditions not evident during clinical consultation. Considering the increasing number of patients with comorbidities requiring dental services, it is crucial for professionals to assess the patient’s systemic status through laboratory tests to determine the best course of action. However, difficulties are observed among professionals and undergraduate students in the indication and interpretation of these tests. Objective: To investigate the level of knowledge of professionals and undergraduate students in Dentistry regarding the indication and interpretation of laboratory tests in the preoperative period of dental surgeries. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted in two private higher education institutions, which included Dentistry students between the 6th and 10th semesters and dentists in a specialization course in oral surgery. Data collection took place between February and March 2026, using an online questionnaire addressing the request and interpretation of hematological tests in different clinical conditions. The results were classified as low (0–3), moderate (4–6), and high (7–8), with calculation of means and standard deviations, adopting a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). Results: 81 participants were analyzed, 82.5% of whom were undergraduate students and 17.5% were dentists. 73.7% stated that they request complementary exams in clinical practice, mainly complete blood count, fasting blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin. It was observed that 51.2% had difficulty requesting and 56.2% had difficulty interpreting the exams, especially biochemical and immunological exams. Conclusion: The results show that, despite requesting exams, undergraduate students and professionals in dentistry do so infrequently and have significant difficulties in choosing and interpreting laboratory tests, suggesting gaps in academic training and practical application of knowledge. These findings reinforce the need for further theoretical and practical study, aiming for safer and more assertive clinical practice in the planning of dental surgeries.