An investigation of the efficiency of the oral airway and a technique for improving the airway in the early post-operative period following mandibular osteotomy

Abstract

Summary A method of immobilising the mandible with the mouth propped partly open during the first few days following mandibular osteotomy is described. It is claimed that this technique improves the oral airway in the early post-operative period, and experimental data is offered in support of this claim. It also permits intra-oral suction to be carried out while the jaws are immobilised. When the post-operative swelling is seen to be subsiding, the mandible is closed into the planned occlusion and re-immobilised in that position. The method of construction of the appliance and its clinical application are described.