A Modified Submandibular Approach - Assessment of Outcome

Abstract

The submandibular approach has been an integral tool in facial surgery since 1934. The technique is indicated in different clinical scenarios. This approach is governed by two key determinants; namely the skin tension lines and the course of the marginal mandibular branch. Aim of study: this study suggests that moving the incision further into the neck while respecting the course of the facial nerve would help achieving both optimal esthetic outcome as well as less nerve injuries. Materials and methods: eight patients requiring facial surgery, where the submandibular approach was indicated, were recruited and the modified submandibular incision was applied. The function of the facial nerve was followed up for six months using the Houseman-Brackman test. The esthetic result was assessed by two panels; consultant maxillofacial surgeons, and lay persons mainly concerned with the esthetics. The panel reviewed the cases through a power point presentation. A questionnaire customized to each panel’s expertise was then provided. Results: Surgeons grading intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) showed that there was an excellent agreement in questions 1, 4, 5 and 7 (ICC=0.672, ICC=0.647, ICC=0.753 and ICC=0.679 respectively). The 5 different maxillofacial surgeons had excellent agreement on that the incision utilized accurately facilitated accessibility, good healing and pleasant esthetic outcome. Regarding lay persons grading, intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) showed that there was an almost perfect inter-observer agreement on the success of the technique esthetically (ICC=0.826 and 0.838 respectively).Conclusion: the modified submandibular approach provided better aesthetic results and lower risk of facial nerve injury.