Autism is an expansive spectrum, and its diagnosis and treatment protocols are as equally widespread. To help us gain a better understanding of autism and how anesthesia works with autistic patients, we are joined today by Dental Anesthesiologist, Dr. Jonathan Bacon. Dr. Bacon begins by walking us through the current state of autism in America, how autism is diagnosed, why it’s important to pay attention to the language that we use regarding autism, and the comorbidities and physiological differences across the autism spectrum to be aware of. Then, our guest explains how he vets his patients’ strengths and weaknesses, how he preps and treats patients with autism, noteworthy case studies from his personal experience, and how anesthesia plays out differently for autistic patients versus others. To end, we learn about some of Dr. Bacon’s favorite reads, and he shares his key takeaways for oral professionals to remember. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Dr. Jonathan Bacon describes the state of autism in the United States. 
• How autism is diagnosed. 
• Why language matters, and assessing what needs to change in how we speak about autism. 
• Autism comorbidities to be aware of; physiological differences across the spectrum. 
• How Dr. Bacon, as an anesthesiologist, preps and treats his autistic patients. 
• Key takeaways for oral professionals about their autistic patients. 
• When Breath Becomes Air, Endurance, On Writing, and The Way of the Superior Man.

Quotes:

“Most recently, in 2020, they reported [that] 1 in 36 people had autism in the United States. So, this is certainly something that we’re going to see, and we’re going to see more of it throughout our practice and throughout our careers.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:02:35]

“With patients that are a little bit more combative, even having them come into the office environment for a consult could be challenging for them. So [first], I’ll pick up the phone and have a conversation with Mom.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:25:57]

“It’s a lot less stressful day for me as the anesthesia provider if the patient is a lot more calm and controllable.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:26:38]

“Very similar to the spectrum of autism, you’re going to see a huge spectrum in the way that they respond to certain medications.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:37:28]

“A lot of outside-the-box thinking and flexibility on our part can go a long way.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:41:12]

“Never underestimate how much a nonverbal individual understands – most people can understand and comprehend a lot more than they can verbally express.” — Dr. Jonathan Bacon [0:43:51]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Jonathan Bacon Email — [email protected]  

Just Wisdom Teeth — justwisdomteethdc.com/  

ADDM Network — cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/addm.html  

When Breath Becomes Air — amazon.com/When-Breath-Becomes-Paul-Kalanithi/dp/081298840X 

Everyday Oral Surgery Website — everydayoralsurgery.com/ 

Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ 

Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/

Dr. Grant Stucki Email — [email protected]

Dr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059