Transoral inferior alveolar neurorrhaphy via a sagittally split mandible

Abstract

A surgical technique for transoral exposure and secondary repair of the inferior alveolar nerve via a sagittally split mandible is described. The use of this approach in certain individuals enables the maxillofacial surgeon to perform a minor resection and re-anastomosis or major resection and autogenous grafting. This procedure provides adequate exposure for re-anastomosis of minor inferior alveolar nerve injuries under minimal tension and without a facial scar. However, postoperative intermaxillary fixation is required for four to six weeks.