Three-dimensional assessment of root changes after Le Fort I osteotomy

Abstract

The study aim was to assess the volumetric, linear, and morphological changes of the maxillary incisor, canine, and premolar roots following Le Fort I osteotomy. Sixty patients (585 teeth) were included retrospectively from among individuals who underwent combined orthodontics and orthognathic surgery. The study group comprised 30 patients who underwent orthodontics and one-piece Le Fort I osteotomy, while the control group consisted of 30 patients who underwent orthodontics and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy but no maxillary surgery. CBCT scans were obtained at four time points: preoperative, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperative. A fully automated three-dimensional evaluation protocol was utilized to assess root changes of the maxillary teeth. Significant differences in the apical and middle parts of the teeth were observed between the study and control groups at 1 and 2 years postoperative, with greater percentage changes in the study group (all P < 0.05). Greater root remodelling in the canines, first and second premolars was observed in the study group (all P < 0.005). Spearman correlation analysis indicated a positive relationship between root remodelling and maxillary advancement, with larger advancements contributing to increased root remodelling in the apical and middle root parts (both P < 0.05). These findings can be valuable for surgeons and orthodontists in evaluating root changes.