Inside the Operating Room and Beyond: The Story Behind “28 Life-Changing Patients”

In this special installment of The Dr. Robert E. Marx Show, Dr. Marx reads the introduction to his acclaimed book, 28 Life-Changing Patients: Chronicles of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, giving listeners a firsthand look at what inspired him to write it and the often-overlooked field he helped shape.

Through both storytelling and candid commentary, Dr. Marx explains what an oral and maxillofacial surgeon really is—and why this dual medical-dental specialty remains one of the most misunderstood yet vital branches of modern healthcare. He also recounts a remarkable story from his colleague Sir Keshe Moose of the U.K., whose knighthood ceremony with Queen Elizabeth II perfectly illustrates how even royalty can ask, “What the blazes is an oral maxillofacial surgeon?”

The episode closes with Dr. Marx reflecting on his own academic career, groundbreaking surgical work, and his pride in training the next generation of surgeons now leading programs across the country.

• The Knighted Surgeon:

  • Story of Sir Keshe Moose, honored by the Queen for his pioneering craniofacial surgery—followed by her now-famous question, “What the blazes is that?”

  • A lighthearted yet meaningful example of how few truly understand this advanced medical field.

• Defining Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS):

  • A dual specialty bridging dentistry and medicine, allowing treatment of conditions that neither alone can fully address.

  • Procedures span from wisdom tooth removal to complex head, neck, and jaw reconstruction, TMJ repair, facial trauma, cancer surgery, and surgical orthodontics.

• The Mission of the Book:

  • Each of the 28 stories is drawn from real cases—no television dramatization, no embellishment.

  • Highlights the humanity, fear, triumph, and frustration behind life-altering surgical decisions.

  • Names are changed to protect privacy, but every professional, institution, and challenge described is real.

• The Academic vs. Private Practice Path:

  • Dr. Marx shares why he chose a career in academic medicine over private practice—sacrificing income for research freedom, innovation, and teaching.

  • Proudly notes that many of his trainees now direct oral and maxillofacial surgery programs nationwide.

• Dispelling Common Misconceptions:

  • Responding to “You’re not a real doctor,” Dr. Marx explains how OMFS surgeons in the U.S. undergo full medical training or its equivalent via the American College of Surgeons.

  • In Europe, every OMFS is dual-degreed (MD and DDS); in the U.S., roughly half hold both degrees, while all complete advanced hospital-based surgical training.

• “Even Queen Elizabeth had to ask—‘What the blazes is an oral maxillofacial surgeon?’”

• “Our field fills a void no one else can—between medicine and dentistry.”

• “These stories aren’t fiction. They’re real lives changed—and doctors changed with them.”

• Understand the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery beyond extractions and implants.

• Appreciate the artistry and complexity behind facial reconstruction, cancer care, and trauma management.

• Recognize that oral surgeons are often both physicians and dentists, uniquely qualified for head and neck procedures.

• Get a glimpse into the academic medicine lifestyle—where legacy, innovation, and mentorship matter as much as the scalpel.

• Website: drrobertemarx.net

• Book: 28 Life-Changing Patients: Chronicles of an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon (available now on Amazon; audiobook coming soon)

• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/remarx_facs

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091526944108

• Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Rmarxfacs

• Radio Syndication: https://amfm247.com/amfm247/

• Spotify Hub: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/robert-marx

This episode contains readings from Dr. Marx’s book, 28 Life-Changing Patients, and personal reflections based on his professional career. It is intended for educational and storytelling purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All patient names have been changed in compliance with HIPAA.