Surgical-orthodontic treatment planning for simultaneous mobilization of the maxilla and mandible in the correction of dentofacial deformities

Abstract

Simultaneous mobilization of the maxilla and mandible is indicated for the optimal correction of specific dentofacial deformities, as discussed in the preceding publication. 1 Because of the added complexity of this type of surgical-orthodontic treatment, it is important to determine the absolute need for surgery and to construct a detailed blueprint of the specific changes to take place at the time of surgical intervention as well as those to be made by the orthodontist prior to initiation of any treatment. The intent of this article is to describe a technique of treatment planning which includes cephalometric prediction tracings, model surgery, determination of orthodontic-surgical sequencing, splint construction, and specific sequencing of surgery. When followed, these guidelines will enable the surgeon and the orthodontist to accurately determine the need for simultaneous mobilization of both the maxilla and the mandible and provide more predictable and stable results when it is performed.