Impact of information delivery mode on postoperative comprehension and anxiety following mandibular third molar extraction: a randomized pilot study comparing a narrated audiovisual tool to a written leaflet

INTRODUCTION: Patient education is a critical determinant of postoperative outcomes. Effective communication optimizes recovery, reduces complication rates, and alleviates patient anxiety. While written leaflets remain standard, their impact is increasingly questioned in the digital era. Audiovisual tools may engage multiple cognitive channels, improve recall, and attenuate anxiety by enhancing predictability and perceived control. This pilot study compared the effects of a narrated audiovisual tool versus a written leaflet (same validated content) on postoperative instruction comprehension and immediate anxiety after mandibular third molar extraction. The second objective was to evaluate patients preferences regarding information delivery tool. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 200 patients undergoing extraction of at least two impacted mandibular third molars under general anesthesia were randomized 1:1 to receive either a written leaflet (Group A, n = 100) or a narrated audiovisual video with identical content (Group B, n = 100). Anxiety was measured after surgery using a visual analog scale (VAS, 0-10) before and after exposure to the attributed information tool. Comprehension was assessed using a validated 7-item multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). RESULTS: Anxiety decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001), with a greater reduction in the video group compared to the leaflet group (-2.61 vs. -1.21 points, 10-point VAS). Comprehension scores were high overall, but significantly higher in the video group (6.80 vs. 6.17 on a 7-point MCQ scale; p < 0.001). Overall, 76% of participants preferred the video format. DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates that audiovisual tools significantly improve comprehension and more effectively reduce postoperative anxiety compared to written instructions. By reinforcing predictability, fostering dual-channel encoding, and reducing uncertainty, audiovisual information delivery may represent a clinically relevant strategy to optimize perioperative care.