Percepción del acudiente acerca de las barreras para la adherencia del tratamiento Ortopédico

Abstract

Introduction: adherence to orthopedic treatment in pediatric patients is a determining factor for therapeutic success; however, multiple social, economic, economic, family, and behavioral barriers may interfere with treatment compliance. In this context, parents or caregivers play a fundamental role, as they actively participate in supervision, attendance at follow-up appointments, and adherence to clinical recommendations. Objective: to analyze parents’ and caregivers’ perceptions of the barriers affecting adherence to orthopedic treatment in pediatric patients treated at the Maxillary Orthopedics Clinics of Santo Tomás University in Bucaramanga. Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 69 caregivers of pediatric patients undergoing active orthopedic treatment. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic, clinical, economic, and adherence-related variables. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: a total of 69 caregivers participated, most of whom were mothers (76.8%). The main barriers identified were financial difficulties (58.0%), missed appointments (51.5%), and patient resistance to treatment (44.9%). Significant associations were found between treatment adherence and appointment attendance, proper appliance use, oral hygiene habits, and family support. Furthermore, a better understanding of the importance of treatment was associated with greater commitment from both patients and caregivers. Conclusion: adherence to pediatric orthopedic treatment primarily depends on family support, patient understanding, and effective communication with healthcare professionals, while economic and behavioral barriers may hinder treatment compliance.