Article

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of general anaesthesia
(GA) among patients with intellectual disability (ID) in relation to the
International Classification of Functioning (ICF). METHOD: Twenty-seven ICF codes
related to the tolerance of the dental treatment were chosen. The sample
consisted of 100 children with ID divided into two groups (50 patients in whom
routine dental treatment had been accomplished and 50 patients who had been
treated under GA). Differences between the groups were analysed using the
chi-square test, bivariate correlation and multiple logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS: The GA group showed higher levels with regard to the following codes:
b117--intellectual function, b2801--pain in head and neck, d310--communication,
d530--toileting, d540--dressing, e310--immediate family, e5400--transportation
services and e5850--education and training services. The severity of ID
significantly correlated with the 'Activities and Participation' codes. Three
predictors of GA treatment were identified: 'Pain in head and neck' (p < 0.001),
'Transportation services, systems and policies' (p < 0.05) and 'Education and
training services, systems and policies' (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of GA
increases with the severity of ID. Acute and painful conditions result in more
frequent use of GA. Unfavourable environmental factors present barrier to routine
dental management.

Langue : ANGLAIS