The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of dental and periodontal injuries, as well as radiological bone healing, at the vertical osteotomies in patients treated with segmental Le Fort I (LFI) osteotomy, as observed on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. This retrospective study analysed 105 patients who underwent segmental LFI osteotomy, in whom vertical osteotomies between the lateral incisor and canine were performed using a bur and extended in depth with an osteotome. CBCT scans were obtained preoperatively and at the 1-week and 1-year follow-ups. Measurements at the 1-week follow-up included interdental distances, root injuries, and periodontal detachment, while assessment at the 1-year follow-up included endodontic treatment and healing of the vertical osteotomies. The results showed no damage to the 420 roots at risk adjacent to the osteotomies; however, the osteotomy extended into the periodontal ligament in 38 roots. The mean preoperative minimum distance between roots differed significantly between osteotomy sites with intact periodontal ligament and those with periodontal ligament detachment (P < 0.001). One tooth was endodontically treated at the 1-year follow-up. Incomplete healing of the vertical osteotomy occurred more frequently in female patients than in male patients (P = 0.012). The study findings suggest that segmental LFI osteotomy is safe when performed with a bur and osteotome, provided a minimum distance of 2.5 mm between roots is maintained.
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