Informe de vigilancia competitiva y análisis temático de tendencias como apoyo de la propuesta de creación de un programa de Especialización en Cirugía Oral y Patología en la Universidad Santo Tomás, seccional Bucaramanga

Abstract

This report evaluates the feasibility of creating a specialization program in Oral Surgery and Pathology at Universidad Santo Tomás, Bucaramanga branch, through an analysis of academic competition and research trends. The national academic offerings were reviewed, identifying 10 programs in Colombia, mainly in Bogotá, Antioquia, Bolívar, and Valle del Cauca, with no presence in the northeastern region, highlighting the need to establish this program in Bucaramanga. According to the POST-Sapiens ranking, the programs offered show strong performance, although none have received the highest rating (AAA). National research capabilities were also analyzed, with two research groups from Universidad Santo Tomás standing out: SIB - Integral Oral Health and Sistema Estomatognático y Morfofisiología - SEMF. The analysis showed sustained demand in oral surgery and pathology programs, with high employability rates (79.2% for recent graduates and 77.6% overall), along with growth in scientific production since 2000, led by countries such as the United States, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Key journals for dissemination include Oral Diseases and Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology. The report emphasizes the importance of integrating advanced technologies, biomaterials, and regenerative medicine into the program, aligning the specialization with global trends. Key technological trends include artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, 3D printing, robotic surgery, and the use of regenerative therapies, offering improvements in treatment precision, personalization, and outcomes. Clinically, minimally invasive procedures and regenerative therapies are becoming preferred approaches. Oral surgeon training is also evolving towards an interdisciplinary approach, while personalized medicine and virtual consultations are enhancing the patient experience. Additionally, digital marketing strategies and the growing demand for surgeons with specific specializations are reshaping the professional hiring and positioning landscape in this field. In conclusion, the creation of the program is considered feasible and necessary due to the lack of competition in the region, the support from research capabilities, growth in scientific production, and strong labor market demand.