Everyday Oral Surgery

A native of Toronto, Canada, Dr. Faisal Quereshy is a board-certified oral, maxillofacial, and facial cosmetic surgeon practicing in Cleveland, Ohio, as well as Professor and Residency Director for the Case Western Reserve University’s Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) Program. As today’s guest, Dr. Quereshy shares his unique perspective as a program director on interviews, externships, and ranking applicants, as well as his thoughts on running both a residency program and a successful private practice. He also shares his advice for dental students on showcasing your personality in interviews, respecting the hierarchy and etiquette within the residency program you choose, and using the externship experience to learn about the residency they want to attend. For all this and so much more, make sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:A brief history of Dr. Quereshy’s training and practice setup.He shares his thoughts as a program director on running a residency program as well as a successful private practice.The financial and surgical benefits that residents gain from a part-time academic model.Learn about the fast-paced structure of the five-year OMFS program at Case Western.What Dr. Quereshy looks for in applicants: self-motivation and the ability to multitask.Power tips for interviewing well and showcasing your personality during the interview.Why Dr. Quereshy says they are not trying to fit an applicant to the current resident pool.How the theme of diversity has been stressed and prioritized in the OMFS program.Dr. Quereshy shares his applicant ranking system and the essential attributes he looks for.Why externs should use the experience to learn about the residency they want to attend.Dr. Quereshy’s advice for externs; respect the hierarchy and etiquette within the program.The value of fellowships for residents; a niche area of expertise in a sub-discipline.The educational and marketing benefits that social media can provide.Find out why Dr. Quereshy is currently pursuing an MBA and how he dodges burnout.Why Blue Ocean Strategy is the best book Dr. Quereshy has read in the past year.How daily prayer grounds his wellbeing and allows his to treat patients with honesty, sincerity, humility, and respect. Why Dr. Quereshy would use upper cowhorn forceps #88R to extract tooth number three.Ending on a quote: “You begin in the name of God, the most merciful, the most beneficent.”Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Faisal Quereshy on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/faisal-a-quereshy-md-facs-5666551b/Dr. Faisal Quereshy on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/facesurgeon/Case Western Reserve University — https://case.edu/Blue Ocean Strategy — https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Ocean-Strategy-Uncontested-Competition/dp/1591396190Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and other types of sleep disorders can have detrimental impacts on people’s lives, young and old. Oral surgeons are extremely well positioned to diagnose and treat these disorders, and in today’s episode I’m joined by Dr. Chris Viozzi, Clinical Chair of the OMS program at the Mayo Clinic, who specializes in this field. Maxillomandibular advancement is the term that used to refer to the operation that can completely change the lives of people suffering from a sleep disorder. It is more complicated than most other types of surgery that oral surgeons perform, and it results in some long-term side effects, but it is also a whole lot more rewarding. Our conversation today covers a range of surgical and non-surgical do’s and don’ts which will supplement your already existing skills with the confidence to successfully treat this patient cohort who could really use your help! Key Points From This Episode:Chris shares his journey prior to, and in the field of, oral surgery. What Chris spends the majority of his time focusing on at the Mayo Clinic.Why oral surgeons are well positioned to diagnose sleep disorders.  The percentage of patients undergoing outpatient surgery that are likely to have a sleep disorder. Where you can learn to speak the language of sleep physicians. How to determine whether an OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) patient needs surgery. Methods which can be used to identify the site of obstruction. Examples of physical features which often signal an OSA. The more complicated nature of Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery compared to other types of reconstructive surgery. Why Chris recommends multiple pre-op visits before doing MMA surgery. How the majority of patients respond to aesthetic changes to their face after MMA surgery. Gratitude that past patients Chris’s have expressed after their MMA surgery. Why Chris strongly believes that oral surgeons should treat patients suffering from sleep disorders. Pain management strategies that Chris recommends. Reasons that orthodontics for OSA patients should be avoided. Chris shares some valuable surgical tips for MMA surgery. Dealing with long term post-surgery side effects.  Advice for how to manage patients with mental health issues coming in for MMA surgery. Problems which can be caused by OSA. A rapid fire round with Chris. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059Dr. Chris Viozzi — Dr. Chris Viozzi Phone — (507) 284-9062Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/ 

There are few oral surgeons who have done as many interviews as my brother, Dr. Jake Stucki, and I’ve done my fair share too. With the interview season starting now, we thought that it would be a good time to share our top tips for one of the key elements which will determine whether you will get into an OMS residency program. From your favorite Tupac song, to the way you want to impact the oral surgery profession, you have to be prepared for the unexpected when it comes to OMS residency interviews. In this episode you’ll hear about the questions we found the most challenging, how you can guide the conversation in a way that suits you, approaches to the post-interview follow up, the importance of being honest, and more! We hope that today’s episode helps put you at ease if you’re heading into this season of your life. Key Points From This Episode:16 and 9; the number of interviews Jake and Grant have done. The important role of interviews in getting an OMS residency. Why Jake recommends speaking to people who have gone through the interview process at the program you are applying to.Examples of some of the questions that Jake was asked during interviews. The most challenging question that was posed to Jake. Some questions we have been asked which are completely unrelated to oral surgery. Jake shares why he chose to do a dual degree program, and how he responded when he was asked why he went down this route. How Jake responded when asked about why he had chosen the program that he was interviewing for. The importance of being honest in interviews.Examples of stories that are helpful to share, and those not to share, in your personal essay. Our thoughts on crying during an interview. The importance of the pre-interview dinner that some programs offer.Our thoughts on how to choose where you do your externship. Different approaches to following up post-interview. What you can learn about a program from interacting with residents who are already there. A question that Grant used to ask when he was interviewing potential residents. The importance of confidence, and the danger of arrogance, in an interview. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/ 

Today’s guest is the first surgeon I’ve had on the podcast who has a completely hospital-based practice. Many surgeons have concerns about having a practice of this type; if you are one of them, you might have your mind changed today! For Dr. Jackson Morgan, the ever-changing, incredibly rewarding nature of his role as a hospital-based surgeon is exactly what he wanted out of his career. It is not without its challenges, but then again, nothing is, and for Jackson, the positives far outweigh any negatives that may arise. Whether you're interested in pursuing this path or not, you’ll walk away from this conversation with a broadened perspective on the range of possibilities that exist for oral surgeons. Key Points From This Episode:What makes today's guest, Jackson Morgan, different from all the other guests we’ve had on the show.Jackson shares what his professional journey has consisted of. Why Jackson decided to be a purely hospital-based surgeon. Challenges of the route Jackson has chosen. What Jackson’s role consists of, and how he feels about his job. Jackson puts to rest a common fear that surgeons have about hospital-based practice.The variety of ways that Jackson is compensated for his work. Contributions that Jackson has made to the Atrium Health OMS program.  Benefits that Jackson receives through the hospital system. Advice from Jackson to anyone interested in having a hospital-based practice. Why Jackson likes being in academia. Tips from Jackson on how to maintain a balanced lifestyle when working in a hospital-based practice. A rapid fire round with Jackson.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

There’s never going to be an anesthesia technique that is 100% foolproof, but the LMA/Sevo technique used by Dr. Paul Rollins and his partners, gets pretty close, according to Paul. Other than a small number of people who have small, or otherwise difficult, airways, the LMA/Sevo approach is safer for the patient, and a more pleasant experience for the surgeon. Amongst other advantages which Paul explains today, there’s less chance of aspiration, laryngospasms, and bronchospasms when using an LMA. Paul also addresses some of the concerns that surgeons have around using Sevo and LMA’s (which include a high cost of entry and the risk of malignant hypothermia) and offers some valuable advice to anyone who is interested in bringing this technique into their practice. We also discuss a book which has a profound impact on both of us, and how getting involved in your community will benefit you at work in ways that may surprise you.Reference ImageKey Points From This Episode:A brief rundown of Paul’s educational and professional career path up until today.The unique element of anesthetic technique that Paul and his partners utilize. Paul explains the benefits of the technique they use.Why Paul and his partners decided not to use narcotics. How working with an LMA differs from working with an open airway. Cases when Paul will do an open airway procedure.What the wake-up looks like after a Sevo/LMA surgery. Why the Sevo/LMA technique is safer than more traditional techniques.Where LMA sits on the emergency airway algorithm. Barriers to using the Sevo/LMA technique. How much Paul and his partners spend on LMAs per year.Advice for surgeons interested in starting to use this technique. Paul addresses concerns that people may have about malignant hypothermia when using this technique.Types of airways which are not suitable for an LMA. How marijuana use impacts the amount of sedative required to put them under. A case where Paul aborted the LMA technique. The book which allowed Paul and I to gain perspective on a lot of things. How socializing outside of work will benefit you at work. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Paul Rollins —paul.rollins29@gmail.com Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

The oral surgery profession is heavily dominated by men, and therefore, being a woman in this field can be difficult. In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jaclyn Tomsic, an oral surgeon who didn’t let any of the hostility she experienced as a resident stop her from achieving her dreams. Today, Jaclyn works four days a week in private practice, and one day a week in the Case Western OMS program where she tries to give to residents what she wishes she had had when she was in their position. Jaclyn also has a large following on Instagram, and the goals she hopes to achieve through this platform are an increased visibility of the oral surgery profession and an increase in the number of women working in this field. For female listeners, this episode will inspire you to continue on the oral surgery path, even though it may be difficult at times. And for male listeners, this episode will open your eyes to the experiences of your female colleagues, and get you to rethink some misconceptions you may hold. Key Points From This Episode:How Jaclyn spends her working hours.Jacyln’s educational background. Why Jaclyn was drawn to the practice she now works in. Enjoyment that Jaclyn gets out of working with residents. The growth and evolution of Jacyln’s very popular Instagram account, and what she hopes to achieve through it.Factors that inspired Jaclyn’s decision to go the oral surgery route.Challenges that Jaclyn experienced as a female oral surgery resident. Drive and determination that got Jaclyn through the hostility she experienced in residency. Jaclyn’s hopes for the future of the oral surgery field. How Jaclyn’s experience as a resident in general medicine differed from her oral surgery residency experience.Obstacles that women face in the field of oral surgery. Misconceptions that people have of female oral surgeons. Advice from Jaclyn about how to deal with people who try to put you down.What Jaclyn wishes she had done differently as a resident.  The high attrition rate of students during my residency, and the reasons that oral surgery residents drop out. Why oral surgery residency is so tough.Value in having a balance between private practice and academia as an oral surgeon. A rapid-fire round with Jaclyn. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Jaclyn Tomsic on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/doctorjacci/?hl=enDr. Jaclyn Tomsic Email — Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

“No worldly success can compensate for failure in the home.” Alongside the fact that we are all oral surgeons, another commonality that I have with the two guests on today’s show is that we all went (or are currently going) through our oral surgery residency with at least one child. Dr John Tannyhill is the Director of Harvard’s School of Dentistry Oral Surgery Program and Dr. Michael Baron is an oral surgery resident at Mount Sinai, and they are here to share advice about maintaining a healthy work-life balance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and there will always be compromises that have to be made, so the key is to communicate openly with your significant other. We discuss important factors to take into account when deciding whether a residency program is “family friendly” or not, how some institutions accommodate for the unique income trajectory of oral surgeons, and why residents with families are likely to be more efficient than those without. For all of us, our “why” is our family, and we couldn’t do what we do without them, which is why we all recommend less (or no) moonlighting; there are so many other ways to get rid of your debt without sacrificing time at home! Key Points From This Episode:Michael and John share what their professional paths have looked like, and how these intersected with their family lives. Factors that contribute to making oral surgery programs “family friendly.”Compromises that you are likely to have to make in order to achieve a work-life balance.The importance of communicating with your significant other. A story about an interaction that Michael had with a landlord in Boston. Challenges of finding affordable housing as an oral surgery resident. The unique income trajectory of oral surgeons, and how banks accommodate for this.Ways that some programs prioritize oral surgeons who have families. How hospitals look after their residents in terms of health insurance.Health insurance options for students.John and Michael’s experiences of medical school compared to residency.A difficult time I went through during my residency and the support that my wife gave me during this time.Michael shares a story which highlights how difficult it can be to balance work and family life. Why residents with families are usually more efficient with their time than those without. The pros and cons of moonlighting, and why none of us would recommend it. Value in having conversations with previous residents. Changes that have occured in residency programs over the years. Support that Michael is receiving in his residency program. A rapid fire round with John and Michael.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

The etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and orofacial pain disorders are frequently challenging, and misdiagnosis and multiple failed treatments are common in this patient population. Today, we are joined by Dr. Louis Mercuri, an experienced oral maxillofacial surgeon, Clinical Consultant for TMJ Concepts, and Visiting Professor at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, who has practiced in the state of Illinois for many years. Over his career, Dr. Mercuri has obtained research funding, published extensively, and been invited to lecture locally, nationally, and internationally on subjects related to the diagnosis and non-surgical and surgical management of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). In this episode, Dr. Mercuri shares some pearls for diagnosing and treating TMD patients, including the tricks and techniques he uses during examination to determine if the condition is intra-articular or extra-articular, how he communicates with unhappy TMD patients, and what resources he provides them with, plus so much more. This is a fascinating and informative conversation about TMD with a foremost expert on the subject, so make sure not to miss it!Key Points From This Episode:Learn about Dr. Mercuri’s dental and surgical training and his current practice setup.Advice for young surgeons who are interested in doing TMJ surgery: learn from others.Complications he has observed in TMD patients, many of which start with misdiagnosis.Diagnosis is key, as is knowing the difference between intra-articular and extra-articular conditions and what operation is required to treat it.Tricks Dr. Mercuri’s uses during examination to determine if TMD is intra- or extra-articular.Why some patients don’t respond to botox and others only feel relief for a few months.Why Dr. Mercuri says you should never operate for pain or promise 100 percent pain relief.The ‘bio-psycho-social’ etiology of TMD and the role that para-functional habits play.What Dr. Mercuri means when he says a well-informed patient is a partner in treatment.The benefits of what he calls a ‘hands in the pocket’ diagnosis.Indications for a total joint replacement, including dysfunction and degenerate changes.Learn more about the custom joint that Dr. Mercuri developed and its benefits.The importance of the social aspect of communicating with an unhappy TMD patient.The resources that Dr. Mercuri provides for TMD patients to take home with them.With the right patient, the right time, and the right equipment, you’ll get a good result!What Dr. Mercuri recommends for the oral surgeon who needs a good counterpart to help with non-surgical procedures.The important distinction that he makes between dentists, oral surgeons, and ‘pain doctors’.Useful medications that Dr. Mercuri prescribes diagnostically, like a low-dose of Elavil.Advice for younger surgeons looking to treat TMD patients: keep up with the literature!Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Louis Mercuri Email — TMJ Concepts — https://www.tmjconcepts.com/Rush University Medical Center — https://www.rush.edu/OMSNIC — https://www.omsnic.com/Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

Suturing has a variety of purposes; it helps to quicken the healing process, minimize bleeding, and hold things in place. There are also a number of different categories that sutures fall into, for example, natural, synthetic, resorbable, and non-resorbable. In today’s episode, I’m joined by my brother, Dr. Jake Stucki, for a discussion around the basics of suturing, and some of the suturing techniques that are commonly used by oral surgeons. We go through a number of cases that we have personally dealt with, and explain what informed our decisions around the type of suture we used in each case, as well as some of the mistakes we have made along the way!  Key Points From This Episode:Jake shares a few of the reasons that oral surgeons suture. Problems with doing a loose suture.Conclusions from studies that looked at results when suturing was done versus when it wasn’t.How oral surgeons generally deal with mandibular compared to maxillary third molar sites. The different categories of suture.Why a surgeon would use a non-resorbable suture.When it is a good idea to use fast-gut.A mistake Grant made when suturing a child with severe autism. Squaring the knot; what this suturing technique entails, and how long it can last if done correctly. How to decide how many knots to place and tips for keeping them tight. Advice for dealing with a very large flap. The benefits of switching sides when suturing.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Jake Stucki Email — jakestucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059

In today’s episode we are joined by Dr. Aaron Liddell, a repeat guest on the podcast; because he has so much valuable knowledge to share one episode wasn’t enough! The main focus of our conversation today is fractures. Over the past few years, and particularly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Aaron has noticed an increase in the number of fracture cases that he is being called in to treat. He goes into detail about how the different approaches he utilizes to deal with a variety of fractures, using real world examples of patients he has worked with. Aaron offers advice to any surgeons who aren’t used to working in this particular realm of oral surgery which will help avoid unnecessary long term damage. So for all this and more from our great guest, join us on Every Day Oral Surgery!Key Points From This Episode:Trends that Aaron has noticed in Denver over the past few years.Ways that the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the volume of fractures Aaron was called to treat.The best way to avoid fracturing a jaw when taking out a third molar.How Aaron’s approach to taking out third molars has changed over time.An example of a patient who was inappropriately managed by another surgeon, and the damage control that Aaron had to do. Advice Aaron would give to surgeons around dealing with cases that are unusual to them.A strategy that Aaron uses in order to avoid using force when taking out a tooth.Factors which determine the order in which Aaron will deal with mandible fractures if the patient has multiple.How Aaron deals with any fractures situated at the mid-neck level or below. Aaron shares his thoughts about hybrid fixation systems.Approaches to dealing with different types of low condylar neck fractures. When Aaron uses rigid treatments and when he uses non-rigid treatments. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Aaron Liddell — https://www.coloradooralsurgery.com/meet-us/dr-aaron-t-liddell-md-dmd-facs/ Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720 441 6059