Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy Research Articles

Influence of the Inferior Turbinate on the Accuracy of Superior Maxillary Repositioning.

Notably, many studies have focused on the bony interference in the maxillary segment when performing maxillary superior repositioning; however, few reports have described the interference with the inferior nasal turbinate. Therefore, the authors aimed to retrospectively analyze the soft tissue or bone tissue volume of the inferior nasal turbinate and the accuracy of maxillary superior repositioning in Le Fort I osteotomy (LF1). The authors included 83 patients with facial deformities who underwent conventional LF1 (maxillary molar elevation between 4.0 and 6.0mm) with/without bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy. The ratio of the soft tissue of the inferior turbinate to that of the inferior nasal cavity was used to divide the participants into 2 subgroups (large and small ratio). Similarly, the bony tissue volume of the inferior turbinate was used to divide the participants into 2 subgroups (large and small bony tissues), and the planned or actual amount of superior repositioning was compared 3 dimensionally. In the soft tissue group, the subgroups showed no significant differences (P=0.934). However, the actual maxillary superior repositioning was significantly lower in the large bone group than in the planned maxillary elevation group (P<0.01). In cases where the maxillary molar needs to be elevated by >4mm and the bone tissue of the inferior nasal turbinate is well developed, an adjunctive technique such as horseshoe osteotomy or partial inferior turbinate resection should be considered in addition to LF1 to avoid interference between the inferior nasal turbinate and the maxillary bone fragments.

Assessment of biomechanical strength of titanium versus unsintered-hydroxyapatite/poly-L-lactic acid (u-HA/PLLA) osteosynthesis screws in bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy

Titanium osteosynthesis is considered to be stable for the bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) procedure in orthognathic surgery but is disregarded owing to a multitude of complications, the most significant necessitating a secondary surgery for removal. Bioresorbable osteofixation devices, especially third-generation unsintered-hydroxyapatite/poly-L-lactic acid (u-HA/PLLA), are increasingly used in the mandibular region because of their strength and bioactive/osteoconductivity. To date, three titanium bicortical screws has been the standard for the rigid fixation of BSSRO. As data on the use of u-HA/PLLA bicortical screws are limited, we conducted an in vitro biomechanical strength test to evaluate the performance of 12-mm bicortical u-HA/PLLA screws in comparison with titanium screws using mandibular bone models. BSSRO was performed on all specimens, followed by fixation with either three titanium screws or three, four, or five u-HA/PLLA screws, and loading was performed using a clinically presumed occlusal force. Displacement forces (measured in newton ‘N’) of 50N, 130N, and 220N were applied. Our results showed that the use of three u-HA/PLLA screws was unstable, that of four u-HA/PLLA screws was comparable, and that of five u-HA/PLLA screws provided stability equal to that of the three titanium bicortical screws. Although further clinical assessment is needed, our study demonstrated that the five u-HA/PLLA bicortical screws are viable alternatives to titanium in BSSRO osteofixation.

Does mandible ramus height asymmetry affect postoperative skeletal stability in orthognathic surgery patients?

BackgroundRelapses following orthognathic surgery have been reported to exceed 2% to 50%, depending on multiple factors. This study aimed to analyze the stability after orthognathic surgery in patients with mandibular ramus height asymmetry through 3D reconstruction using Cone-beam CT.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study investigated patients who underwent mandibular setback surgery using bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy. Three-dimensional CT scans were taken at three different time points. Evaluation of the postoperative stability involved measuring changes in the x, y, and z axes as well as roll and yaw rotations of the mandible at specific landmarks (B point, mental foramen) on 3D CT scans obtained immediately after surgery and 6–12 months postoperatively. They were categorized into four groups based on bilateral mandibular height asymmetry through Asymmetry index (AI). The one-way ANOVA was implemented to compare the intergroup differences and Tukey's post hoc test was employed. Additionally, the Pearson correlation coefficient was also calculated.ResultsA total of 24 patients were included in this study. The corresponding AI, representing the degree of asymmetry in both mandibles, were calculated as Group 1 was 1.25 ± 0.64%, Group 2 was 2.89 ± 0.47%, Group 3 was 5.03 ± 0.51%, and Group 4 was 9.40 ± 1.99%. The x-axis change in Group 4 was significantly larger at 1.71 mm compared to Group 1 at 0.64 mm. The mandibular roll, Group 4 showed a statistically significant increase at 1.33° compared to Group 1 at 0.35°. And there was a significant positive correlation observed between x-axis change and AI (p = 0.019), as well as between mandibular roll and AI (p = 0.025).ConclusionAfter orthognathic surgery, stability was influenced by numerous factors, with the findings of this study suggesting that the degree of ramus height asymmetry in the mandible can be considered one contributing factor.

Factors predicting neurosensory disturbance after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy: a retrospective cohort study

Neurosensory disturbances (NSD) are the most widely recognized complication of bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO), but predictors of NSD remain unclear. The aim of this study was to identify factors predicting NSD following BSSRO. A retrospective cohort study of 129 consecutive patients with dentofacial deformities (median age 24.0 years; 76.0% female), who underwent BSSRO (95 without genioplasty, 34 with genioplasty), was conducted. The presence of NSD was evaluated at 6 months postoperatively and was found in 97 patients (absent in 32 patients). Potential NSD-related factors investigated were age, sex, genioplasty, mandibular canal type, inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) exposure, mandibular movement, and laterality. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to elucidate factors predicting NSD, with calculation of odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The dependent variable was defined as NSD after BSSRO. Independent variables were those with P < 0.100 in the univariate analysis. In the multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, NSD showed a significant association with BSSRO with genioplasty (adjusted OR 3.87, 95% CI 1.21–12.26; P = 0.022) and left IAN exposure (adjusted OR 4.69, 95% CI 1.49–14.73; P = 0.008). The study findings may lead to enhanced clinical outcomes for BSSRO.

Effect of condylar rotation on the stress environment of the temporomandibular joint in patients with mandibular protrusion

PurposeThe study aims to analyse the effects of condylar rotation on the biomechanical environment of the TMJ after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) through the finite element method (FEM). MethodsThirteen patients with mandibular prognathism and twenty-three normal subjects were recruited. The three-dimensional (3D) models were reconstructed. 13 representative morphological parameters were measured for comparison. A patient was selected to perform virtual BSSRO surgery by rotating the condyles in MIMICS. The preoperative and postoperative 3D models of the patient were subsequently imported into ABAQUS for finite element analysis. The preoperative and postoperative stresses and joint spaces in the TMJs were investigated. ResultsThe maxillofacial morphologies of the patients with mandibular protrusion was significantly different from those of the asymptomatic subjects (P<.05). Stresses in the postoperative group were lower than those in the preoperative group. The rotation of the condyle could cause the variations in stress levels and joint spaces within the TMJs. Inward and upward rotation of the condyle was associated with higher stress in the TMJ, whereas the lowest stress was observed when the condyle remained stationary following surgical intervention. SignificanceLateral, medial and superior joint spaces were more related to the stresses in the TMJs. The condyle should be kept in place as much as possible to avoid disrupting the balance of the TMJ in patients with mandibular protrusion.

Assessment of nasal respiration and three-dimensional airway volume changes in orthognathic surgery patients

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maxillary movements in orthognathic surgery on nasal airway volume change and its correlation with airflow and resistance. Materials and methodsThis study included 25 patients (8 male, 17 female) with Class II (6 patients) or Class III (19 patients) malocclusion. All patients underwent Le Fort I and bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy. Nasal airflow and resistance were measured by using rhinomanometry and acoustic rhinometry pre and six months post-operatively. Nasal volume was measured using computed tomography before surgery and six months after surgery. ResultsNasal volume increased in 10 out of 11 patients with CCW (counterclockwise) rotation and decreased in 1 patient while, nasal volume increased in 5 patients with CW (clockwise) rotation and decreased in 9 patients. Superior nasal airway volume increased significantly, while the effects on nasal flow and resistance were not significant. Additionally, no significant correlation was found between airway volume changes and variations in airflow and resistance. ConclusionCCW rotation in orthognathic surgery patients significantly increased superior nasal airway volume but did not improve nasal airway flow and resistance

Impact of general anesthesia on postoperative complications in orthognathic surgery: a retrospective comparison of total intravenous anesthesia versus volatile anesthesia

Orthognathic surgery has a high incidence of postoperative nausea (PON) and vomiting (POV), delaying mobility initiation and postoperative recovery. Bleeding is another risk associated with this surgical procedure. We aimed to compare total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) and volatile anesthesia in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery in terms of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) incidence and hemodynamic changes. This retrospective study included 82 patients who underwent bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomies at Saga University Hospital between April 2016 and April 2021. We compared the effects of TIVA and volatile anesthesia on PONV onset after surgery, acute postoperative hemodynamic changes (blood pressure and heart rate), and factors contributing to PONV. PON was significantly lower in the TIVA group than in the volatile anesthesia group. The total dose of fentanyl contributed to the onset of POV, while the onset of PON was associated with low volumes of fluid infusion and urine in the TIVA and volatile anesthesia groups, respectively. Furthermore, post-extubation hemodynamic change was significantly smaller in the TIVA group than in the volatile anesthesia group. Therefore, TIVA could have a reduced risk of PONV and hemodynamic changes in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Employing TIVA could mitigate perioperative complications and enhance patient safety.

Evaluation of mandibular condyle position in Class III patients after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery: A cone-beam computed tomography study.

This retrospective study evaluated the mandibular condyle position before and after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery performed with the mandibular condyle positioned manually in patients with mandibular prognathism using cone-beam computed tomography. Overall, 88 mandibular condyles from 44 adult patients (20 female and 24 male) diagnosed with mandibular prognathism due to skeletal Class III malocclusion who underwent bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) and Le Fort I performed using the manual condyle positioning method were included. Cone-beam computed tomography images obtained 1-2 weeks before (T0) and approximately 6 months after (T1) surgery were analyzed in three planes using 3D Slicer software. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05 level. Significant inward rotation of the left mandibular condyle and significant outward rotation of the right mandibular condyle were observed in the axial and coronal planes (P < 0.05). The positions of the right and left condyles in the sagittal plane and the distance between the most medial points of the condyles in the coronal plane did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). While the change in the sagittal plane can be maintained as before surgery with manual positioning during the BSSRO procedure, significant inward and outward rotation was observed in the axial and coronal planes, respectively, even in the absence of concomitant temporomandibular joint disorder before or after the operation. Further long-term studies are needed to correlate these findings with possible clinical consequences.

Quantitative evaluation of the cheek area after maxillary advancement and rotation by orthognathic surgery in skeletal maxillary retrusion

AbstractAimNo quantitative methods for evaluating the cheek line after orthognathic surgery have been reported. The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of orthognathic surgery on the cheek line using computer‐assisted image analysis.MethodsThis retrospective study involved 101 female participants who underwent orthognathic surgery consisting of both Le Fort I osteotomy and bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy. Lateral cephalometric photographs of the patients were analyzed using computer‐assisted image analysis to determine the area surrounded by the cheek line (iCA). The ratio of the postoperative iCA to the preoperative iCA was calculated and denoted as the iCA ratio.ResultsParticipants were categorized into four diagnostic groups according to their malocclusion: Group 1 (maxillary retrusion with mandibular protrusion); Group 2 (maxillary retrusion with mandibular retrusion); Group 3 (maxillary protrusion with mandibular protrusion); and Group 4 (maxillary protrusion with mandibular retrusion). The mean iCA ratio of Group 1 was 1.61, which was the largest value among the four groups. Analyses were performed for Groups 1 and 2 because Groups 3 and 4 had too few cases. When measuring the distances of maxillary forward or backward movement, the iCA ratio was significantly correlated with the distance of maxillary forward movement (correlation coefficients: 0.25 and 0.22 respectively), but not the degree of rotation of maxillary and mandibular movement.ConclusionMaxillary forward movement by Le Fort I osteotomy contributed to the increase of iCA in the profile, which may help to predict the effects of orthognathic surgery on the cheek line.

Adaptation of soft tissue following bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy in skeletal class III patients with facial asymmetry: A retrospective study

PurposeThis retrospective study aimed to evaluate sequential changes in soft tissue thickness after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) in skeletal class III patients with facial asymmetry and to explore their correlation with surgical movements for optimal postoperative facial symmetry and esthetic outcomes. Material and MethodsThis study included 37 patients with class III malocclusion and > 4 mm Menton (Me) deviation who underwent BSSRO. Posteroanterior cephalograms were captured at preoperative (T0), 6 weeks (T1), 6 months (T2), and 1 year (T3) postoperative intervals to analyze changes in Me deviation, fronto-ramal inclination (FRI), and soft tissue thickness. Statistical analysis was conducted to assess the changes in soft tissue thickness over time and the effects of surgical correction. ResultsSignificant improvements in facial asymmetry were noted after surgery, with reductions in Me deviation and FRI on both the deviated side (DS) and non-deviated side (NDS). An increase in soft tissue thickness was observed on both the DS and NDS after surgery, with the NDS showing a continued increase between 6 months and 1 year, indicating an ongoing compensation for symmetry restoration. The study also identified a positive correlation between the surgical movement of the FRI and the increase in soft tissue width on the NDS after 6 months. ConclusionThis study established that soft tissue thickness continues to adapt and change up to 1 year after BSSRO, underscoring the need for a long-term evaluative approach in orthognathic surgery for patients with facial asymmetry.

Three-Dimensional Changes of Condylar Position After Bimaxillary Surgery to Correct Skeletal III Malocclusion: Cone Beam Computed Tomography Voxel-Based Superimposition Analysis

BackgroundThe stability of the condylar position within the first three months after orthognathic surgery in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion is crucial for subsequent orthodontic treatment. PurposeThe purpose was to compare condylar positional changes three months after bimaxillary surgery to correct skeletal Class III deformities, utilizing the conventional two-dimensional (2D) combined with the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) voxel-based superimposition analysis. Study design, setting, sampleThis retrospective cohort study included skeletal Class III patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery at Khon Kaen University, Thailand in 2020. Exclusion criteria were patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms, facial asymmetry prior to the surgery, or surgical complications. Exposure variableThe exposure variable was the timing, both preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. This 3-month postoperative time point was chosen because complete healing of the bimaxillary surgery is expected by then, without any potential influence of condylar changes resulting from subsequent orthodontic treatment. Main outcome variablesThe outcome variable is condylar position measurement, joint space (mm) and axial condylar angle (degrees). CovariatesDemographics (age, sex), and surgical details (direction and amount of movement) were collected as covariates. AnalysesStatistical analysis of condylar positional changes and correlations was performed using paired t-test and linear correlation (P-value < 0.05), respectively. ResultsThe sample included 11 subjects (22 condyles), with a mean age of 24±5.24 years. Both 2D measurements and voxel-based 3D superimposition showed significant changes in condylar position three months after bimaxillary surgery: inferior (0.45±0.26 mm, P < 0.001), posterior (0.46±0.39 mm, P = 0.003), lateral (0.38±0.42 mm, P = 0.01) displacement, and inward rotation (5.21±2.54°, P < 0.001). No significant correlation was found between jaw movement distance and condylar changes. Conclusions and relevanceTo our knowledge, this is the first study to report measures of condylar changes at 3 months, when complete healing of the osteotomies would be expected, using Le Fort I osteotomy for maxillary advancement combined with bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) for mandibular setback. These changes are small in magnitude and may be of little relevance to patient care.

Does the Implementation of Virtual Planning has a Significant Impact on Reducing the Revision Rate in Orthognathic Surgery?

Conventional orthognathic surgical planning has limitations in accurately transferring the relationship between soft tissue and bone. Virtual planning offers enhanced accuracy and visualization through computer simulation. This study aimed to compare the need for reoperation between patients who underwent conventional and virtual surgical planning for orthognathic surgery. The study included 352 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery. Reoperation rates and reasons for reoperation were evaluated in patients with conventional model surgery planning (143 patients) and virtual planning (209 patients). The reoperation rate was 7.69% for conventional surgery patients and 3.82% for virtual planning patients. Malocclusion was the most common reason for reoperation in both groups. Bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomies (BSSO) and genioplasty were the most frequently performed revision procedures. Virtual planning in orthognathic surgery may lead to a reduced reoperation rate compared with conventional planning methods. The accuracy, visualization, and interdisciplinary collaboration offered by virtual planning can improve surgical outcomes.

Do Surgical Intervention Type and Baseline Condylar Position Affect Spatial Dimension Changes of the Temporomandibular Joint in the Surgical Correction of Skeletal Class II Deformities?

One of the key features of orthognathic surgery is altering temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condylar positions. This multivariate study aimed to identify surgical interventions and patient factors significantly associated with changes in TMJ spatial dimensions after the surgical correction of skeletal Class II deformities. This is a retrospective cohort study including patients who had undergone an isolated bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSO) or a bimaxillary osteotomy (BMO) for mandibular advancement and a control sample of patients treated with the removal of odontogenic cysts in the mandibular posterior region. Excluded were those who presented with specific radiographic signs of TMJ osteoarthrosis, severe facial asymmetry, or deformity secondary to trauma. The primary predictors were condylar position at baseline (anterior, concentric, and posterior), time points (T0, preoperatively; T1, immediately after surgery; and T2, 1-year follow-up), and surgical intervention type (BSSO, BMO, and control group). The primary outcomes were changes in posterior spatial dimension (PSD), superior spatial dimension, and medial spatial dimension assessed by cone-beam computed tomography preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and at 1-year follow-up. Covariates included sex, age, and amount of mandibular advancement. Estimations of independent effects of primary predictors on outcome variables were made by applying generalized estimation equation models. The value of statistical significance was P<.05. The study sample included 88 participants. The BSSO samples included 39 patients, and the BMO group included 22 patients; the control group comprised 27 subjects. The average age was 31.2years; the majority were female (61.4%). Adjusted generalized estimation equation models yielded a significant time interaction between BSSO and spatial dimensions over time (PSD, P<.001). Key predictors of spatial dimension changes were the baseline posterior (PSD, P<.001) and the central condylar position (PSD, P<.001). This controlled study, for the first time, provides scientific evidence on the effects of surgical intervention type and baseline condylar position on spatial dimension changes in the TMJ. It shows a more favorable outcome in long-term spatial dimension changes for patients treated by a BMO procedure.

Surgical Management of Laterognathia with Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy: A Serial Case Report

Introduction: Laterognathia is characterized by the mandibular deviation to one of the sides affected which often caused by unilateral overgrowth of the mandible and age-related adaptive remodeling changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that affected masticatory function and aesthetics. The aim of this serial case report is to discuss the surgical management for laterognathia with bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) on a clinical case of asymmetrical dentofacial deformity due to an excessive mandibular unilateral laterognathia. Case Report: This case report contains two cases of mandibular laterognathia. Both of our patients underwent a corrective procedure with bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSO) that performed mandibular setback and rotation. Post-operative follow-up showed the patient was in good condition and no complications were noted. Conclusion: The mandibular setback and rotation procedure can be performed with a bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSO). Significant improvement of laterognathia in occlusion, masticatory function, and facial appearance was achieved by surgical management with BSSO procedure. Keywords: laterognathia, bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, mandibular setback.

Does adjunctive fixation in conjunction with miniplate affect condylar position and morphology after mandibular advancement through bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy? A retrospective 3-dimensional CT comparative study

To minimize condylar positional and morphological changes after mandibular advancement through bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO), surgeons add either a bicortical screw or a two-hole plate distal to the conventional single miniplate. Since there have been no previous studies investigating the effect of this combination, our study aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of these adjunctive fixation methods (AFM) on condylar positional and morphological changes after mandibular advancement through BSSRO.This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients with retruded mandibles who were treated in the Department of Orthognathic and TMJ Surgery at West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University. The patients were divided into two groups based on the primary predictor variable, which was the addition of AFM — either a single bicortical screw or a two-hole plate in addition to the single miniplate. The primary outcome variable was the condylar positional and morphological changes after mandibular advancement through BSSRO. Three-dimensional facial CT scans were obtained at three different time points (preoperatively — T0, 1 week postoperatively — T1, and 1 year postoperatively — T2) and analyzed using ITK-SNAP, 3D Slicer, and SlicerSALT software. Intergroup comparisons were conducted with an independent t-test, with a p-value of <0.05 considered significant. Correlations between the variables were estimated by Pearson correlation. The study comprised 51 patients (32 females, 19 males; mean age 25.13 ± 4.24 years), involving a total of 81 condyles (21 unilateral and 60 bilateral).There was a significant difference in long-term condylar displacement in favor of AFM along with a single miniplate (p < 0.001). The bicortical screw group recorded less condylar displacement than the two-hole plate group horizontally (0.11 mm vs 0.22 mm) and sagittally (0.03 mm vs 0.17 mm), but more vertically (0.85 mm vs 0.03 mm). Bone formation associated with AFM occurred on all condylar surfaces, compared with only three surfaces in the single miniplate group.The adjunctive method in addition to the single miniplate fixation method showed less condylar displacement and more bone apposition after mandibular advancement through BSSRO. The follow-up duration variable was the only significant determinant for volumetric changes in the condyle.

Mandibular Body Osteotomy Combined with Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy for the Treatment of Severe Skeletal Class Ⅲ Malocclusion with Ankylosed Teeth.

This study presents a combination of 2 different surgery procedures performed on the mandible as part of the treatment aiming to improve the facial profile and occlusal function of patients with severe skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion and bilateral edentulous gaps. The teeth next to the edentulous gaps were found to be ankylosed. Mandibular setback by bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomies and mandibular body osteotomies, combined with Le Fort Ⅰ level maxillary advancement were performed, since the chief complaint of the patient was a concave profile. As a result, the skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion had been corrected, a satisfying facial profile had been achieved, and no apparent adverse effect was found. Thus, it has been proved that the combination of sagittal split ramus osteotomy and mandibular body osteotomy is available for correcting skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion.

A retrospective study of occlusal reconstruction in patients with old jaw fractures and dentition defects

PurposeThis study evaluated the methods and clinical effects of multidisciplinary collaborative treatment for occlusal reconstruction in patients with old jaw fractures and dentition defects. MethodsPatients with old jaw fractures and dentition defects who underwent occlusal reconstruction at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University from January 2018 to December 2022 were enrolled. Clinical treatment was classified into 3 phases. In phase I, techniques such as orthognathic surgery, microsurgery, and distraction osteogenesis were employed to reconstruct the correct 3-dimensional (3D) jaw position relationship. In phase II, bone augmentation and soft tissue management techniques were utilized to address insufficient alveolar bone mass and poor gingival soft tissue conditions. In phase III, implant-supported overdentures or fixed dentures were used for occlusal reconstruction. A summary of treatment methods, clinical efficacy evaluation, comparative analysis of imageological examinations, and satisfaction questionnaire survey were utilized to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy in patients with traumatic old jaw fractures and dentition defects. All data are summarized using the arithmetic mean ± standard deviation and compared using independent sample t-tests. ResultsIn 15 patients with old jaw fractures and dentition defects (an average age of 32 years, ranging from 18 to 53 years), there were 7 cases of malocclusion of single maxillary fracture, 6 of malocclusion of single mandible fracture, and 2 of malocclusion of both maxillary and mandible fractures. There were 5 patients with single maxillary dentition defects, 2 with single mandibular dentition defects, and 8 with both maxillary and mandibular dentition defects. To reconstruct the correct 3D jaw positional relationship, 5 patients underwent Le Fort I osteotomy of the maxilla, 3 underwent bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy of the mandible, 4 underwent open reduction and internal fixation for old jaw fractures, 3 underwent temporomandibular joint surgery, and 4 underwent distraction osteogenesis. All patients underwent jawbone augmentation, of whom 4 patients underwent a free composite vascularized bone flap (26.66%) and the remaining patients underwent local alveolar bone augmentation. Free gingival graft and connective tissue graft were the main methods for soft tissue augmentation (73.33%).The 15 patients received 81 implants, of whom 11 patients received implant-supported fixed dentures and 4 received implant-supported removable dentures. The survival rate of all implants was 93.82%. The final imageological examination of 15 patients confirmed that the malocclusion was corrected, and the clinical treatment ultimately achieved occlusal function reconstruction. The patient satisfaction questionnaire survey showed that they were satisfied with the efficacy, phonetics, aesthetics, and comfort after treatment. ConclusionOcclusal reconstruction of old jaw fractures and dentition defects requires a phased sequential comprehensive treatment, consisting of 3D spatial jaw correction, alveolar bone augmentation and soft tissue augmentation, and implant-supported occlusal reconstruction, achieving satisfactory clinical therapeutic efficacy.

The effect of tongue reduction for preventing adverse effects in patients undergoing class III orthognathic surgery: a three-dimensional comparative analysis.

This study aims to evaluate the potential benefits of combining tongue reduction with mandibular setback surgery in patients undergoing class III orthognathic surgery. Specifically, we investigated whether this combined approach reduced the risk of surgical relapse, condylar resorption, and airway space reduction by mitigating tongue pressure on the mandible. The study retrospectively enrolled patients who had undergone bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) with at least 5 mm of setback and met the criteria of a body mass index > 20 kg/m2 and tongue volume > 100 mm3. The study included 20 patients with 10 in the tongue reduction group (TR, n = 10) and 10 in the BSSRO only group (SO, n = 10). The volumetric changes of the total airway space were significantly different between the TR and SO groups (p = 0.028). However, no significant differences were observed in the condylar resorption and postoperative relapse between the groups (p = 0.927 and 0.913, respectively). The difference between the resorption of the anterior and posterior segments of the condyle was also statistically insignificant (p = 0.826). Postoperative counterclockwise rotation of the proximal segment only demonstrated a significant correlation with postoperative relapse (p = 0.048). The reduction in tongue volume demonstrated a preventive effect on the reduction of the airway space after mandibular setback, although it did not yield statistical significance concerning surgical relapse and condylar volume. The counterclockwise rotation of the proximal segment might be responsible for the forward displacement of the distal segment and postoperative relapse. However, the clinical implications of this finding should be interpreted with caution owing to the limited sample size CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Tongue reduction could potentially serve as a preventive measure in preserving the airway space and might be beneficial in mitigating the risk of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with class III deformity.

Effect of betamethasone injection into the pterygomandibular space on the neurosensory disturbance after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy: a pilot study

AimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of local betamethasone injection into the pterygomandibular space on postoperative neurosensory deficits.Materials and methodsA prospective controlled clinical study was conducted on 16 patients (6 male, 10 female; mean age, 24.95 ± 9.22 years) who underwent bilateral sagittal ramus osteotomy for mandibular discrepancies. One side of each patient’s mandible was randomly selected as the control side, and the opposite side as the experimental side. On the experimental side, a solution of betamethasone (6 mg/1 ml) was injected into the pterygomandibular space after the completion of wound closure. Neurosensory tests, including light touch, two-point discrimination, direction of movement, thermal sensitivity, and pin-prick discrimination, were performed. The follow-up period ranged between 6 and 12 months, according to the particular sensory test. The Fisher exact test was used to analyse the data.ResultsThe light touch sensation was abnormal in 75% of the control side and 31% of the study side, with the difference being significant (p = 0.03). However, at 6 months, all the study cases regained touch sensation, compared to 69% of the control side. No significant difference in direction movement discrimination was seen; however, at 3 months, the study side showed significantly less direction sensation (19%) compared to the control side (56%) (p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the two-point discrimination; however, at 3 months, the study side had a significantly less abnormal two-point sensation (13%) than the control side (56%) (p = 0.02). In addition, no significant difference was noted in thermal sensitivity or pin-prick sensation.ConclusionBetamethasone injection into the pterygomandibular space reduces neurosensory disturbances after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomies nd leads to faster recovery of sensations.

Investigation of the efficacy of two different laser types in the treatment of lower lip paresthesia after sagittal split ramus osteotomy

Orthognathic surgery involves invasive and major surgical procedures commonly used to correct maxillofacial deformities. Bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSO) is often used to treat dentofacial anomalies related to the mandible, but it can result in various complications, the most common of which is inferior alveolar nerve damage. Nerve damage–induced paresthesia of the lower lip significantly affects patient comfort. Medical treatments such as steroids and vitamin B, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can be used as supportive therapies for nerve regeneration after damage. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of two different types of lasers in treating lower lip paresthesia after BSSO. This clinical trial was a controlled, single-center, prospective, single-blind, randomized study. Thirty patients were included in the study and randomly assigned to three groups: Group I (laser GRR, n = 10) received transcutaneous and transmucosal GRR laser treatment, Group II (Epic10 laser, n = 10) received transmucosal and transcutaneous Epic10 laser treatment, and Group III (vitamin B, n = 10) received B-complex vitamin tablets orally once a day. Two-point and brush tests were performed six times at specific intervals, and a visual analog scale was used to evaluate pain and sensitivity. Both vitamin B and laser therapies accelerated nerve regeneration. The contribution of the laser groups to the healing rate was better than that of the vitamin B group. Although there was no statistically significant difference between the two laser groups, clinical observations indicated better results in the GRR laser group.