Our Summary

This research aimed to determine how accurate virtual planning is for a type of jaw surgery called bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. The researchers looked at data from various sources, including scientific databases and clinical trial registries, and focused on publications from 2010 to 2020. After selecting 26 suitable studies, they used specific tools and software to assess the quality of each study. They compared the planned surgical procedures with the actual outcomes, for both the upper and lower jaw. The researchers found that virtual planning for this type of surgery tends to be very accurate.

FAQs

  1. What type of jaw surgery was the focus of this research?
  2. How did the researchers determine the accuracy of virtual planning for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?
  3. What were the findings of the research on the accuracy of virtual planning for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions or medication guidelines. It is also important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have before the surgery. Additionally, post-operative care, such as proper oral hygiene and following up with any recommended physical therapy, is crucial for a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery, such as bimaxillary orthognathic surgery, include those with:

  1. Severe malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth
  2. Facial asymmetry
  3. Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw misalignment
  4. Sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties related to jaw position
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Facial trauma resulting in jaw deformities
  7. Congenital conditions affecting the jaw structure
  8. Skeletal discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws
  9. Patients who have completed their growth and development, usually around late adolescence or early adulthood

Overall, patients who experience functional or aesthetic issues related to their jaw alignment are good candidates for jaw surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if they would benefit from jaw surgery.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the need for jaw surgery and determine the treatment plan.
  2. Pre-operative assessments such as imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans), dental impressions, and blood tests.
  3. Virtual planning using advanced software to create a detailed surgical plan, including the desired movements of the upper and lower jaw.
  4. Pre-operative orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare for surgery.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Hospital admission for the surgery, which may involve the upper and lower jaw being repositioned and secured with plates and screws.
  2. Post-operative care in the hospital, including pain management, monitoring for complications, and starting a liquid or soft diet.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist to monitor healing and adjust orthodontic treatment.
  4. Gradual transition back to a normal diet and daily activities as the jaw heals and the bite stabilizes.
  5. Long-term follow-up to ensure the success of the surgery and monitor any potential issues with jaw function or aesthetics.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after jaw surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  3. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of changes in appearance and function?
  4. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
  5. How will the virtual planning process impact the precision and success of the surgery?
  6. What are the limitations of virtual planning for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?
  7. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery and what is your success rate?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  9. How much pain and discomfort can I expect after the surgery and how will it be managed?
  10. What long-term effects should I be aware of following bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?

Reference

Authors: Tondin GM, Leal MOCD, Costa ST, Grillo R, Jodas CRP, Teixeira RG. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022 May;60(4):412-421. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2021.09.010. Epub 2021 Sep 20. PMID: 35120785