Our Summary

This research paper is a thorough review of existing literature on the use of bone grafts in jaw surgery, specifically where the jaw is repositioned and there are gaps left that need to be filled for better healing and stability. The researchers looked at nearly 2000 articles and studies, and narrowed them down to 48 that were most relevant. The review found that using bone grafts can improve healing, stability, and the look of the jaw after surgery. It also found that the type of bone graft used didn’t make a big difference, but two types - calcium phosphate cement and hydroxyapatite - were linked to increased infection rates. The paper concludes that there isn’t enough evidence to make a solid recommendation about using bone grafts in this kind of surgery, and suggests guidelines based on the current evidence. However, it calls for more research in the future to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is the primary purpose of using bone grafts in jaw surgery?
  2. Does the type of bone graft used in jaw surgery impact the healing and stability of the jaw?
  3. What are the conclusions of the research paper on the use of bone grafts in jaw surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully, including maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon. It’s also important to give yourself enough time to rest and heal properly before returning to normal activities. Remember to communicate any concerns or questions you have with your healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe bite problems (malocclusion) that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone.
  2. Facial asymmetry or disproportion due to jaw misalignment.
  3. Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw abnormalities.
  4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that are not responsive to conservative treatments.
  5. Sleep apnea or other breathing problems related to jaw structure.
  6. Traumatic injuries to the jaw that have resulted in significant deformity or functional impairment.
  7. Congenital conditions such as cleft lip and palate that affect the development of the jaw.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a maxillofacial surgeon to determine if jaw surgery is necessary and appropriate for their specific condition. Additionally, patients should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  2. Pre-surgical preparation, which may include dental impressions, X-rays, and medical history review.
  3. Orthodontic treatment to align teeth and prepare for surgery.
  4. Pre-operative appointments to discuss surgery details, risks, and expectations.
  5. Physical and psychological preparation for the surgery.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the recovery room with monitoring of vital signs.
  2. Pain management and medication to control discomfort.
  3. Swelling and bruising may occur and gradually subside over the following weeks.
  4. Liquid diet initially, progressing to soft foods as jaw heals.
  5. Follow-up appointments with surgeon to monitor healing progress and remove any stitches or splints.
  6. Physical therapy to regain jaw mobility and strength.
  7. Orthodontic treatment to fine-tune bite and alignment.
  8. Long-term follow-up to monitor any potential complications or need for additional treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with jaw surgery, including the use of bone grafts?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to take, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes after surgery?
  4. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery, in terms of both function and aesthetics?
  5. How experienced are you in performing this type of jaw surgery, and what is your success rate?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to jaw surgery that I should consider?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or follow-up surgeries in the future?
  8. How long will the effects of the bone graft last, and are there any long-term considerations I should be aware of?
  9. How much will the surgery cost, and will my insurance cover any of the expenses?
  10. Are there any specific pre-operative or post-operative instructions that I need to follow to ensure the best possible outcome?

Reference

Authors: Alyahya A, Swennen GRJ. Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2019 Mar;48(3):322-331. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2018.08.014. Epub 2018 Sep 18. PMID: 30241739