Our Summary

This research paper looks at how moving the jaw during a certain type of surgery (bimaxillary orthognathic surgery) can affect breathing. The study involved 23 patients (11 men and 12 women) who had undergone this surgery.

The researchers measured several things including the shape and size of the throat area, and the speed and direction of airflow in the throat and nose both before and after the surgery. They found that after surgery, the size of the nasal and throat area decreased, but the speed of airflow in the throat area increased.

The study also found that the amount of change in the positioning of certain points on the jawbone was linked to changes in airflow and the size of the throat area. Interestingly, changes in airflow in the throat were more affected by changes in pressure in the throat, rather than changes in pressure in the nose.

The researchers concluded that using computer simulations to analyze the shape and size of the throat area before surgery could be very helpful in making pre-surgery decisions.

FAQs

  1. Does moving the jaw during bimaxillary orthognathic surgery affect breathing?
  2. How does the shape and size of the throat area change after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?
  3. How can computer simulations help in making pre-surgery decisions for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing jaw surgery to pay attention to their breathing patterns post-surgery and to report any changes or difficulties in breathing. They might also recommend following up with a sleep study to monitor for any potential breathing issues during sleep. Additionally, the doctor may advise the patient to follow any post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and minimize any potential complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe malocclusion: Patients with severe misalignment of the teeth and jaws may benefit from jaw surgery to correct the alignment and improve their bite.

  2. Facial asymmetry: Patients with significant facial asymmetry, such as a protruding chin or a receding jaw, may require jaw surgery to improve the symmetry and balance of their facial features.

  3. Sleep apnea: Jaw surgery can be recommended for patients with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which the airway is blocked during sleep, causing breathing difficulties.

  4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Patients with severe TMJ disorders that cannot be treated with conservative measures may benefit from jaw surgery to correct the underlying structural issues.

  5. Difficulty chewing or speaking: Patients who have difficulty chewing food or speaking clearly due to jaw misalignment may be recommended for jaw surgery to improve their functional abilities.

  6. Orthodontic concerns: Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment may require jaw surgery to correct severe skeletal discrepancies that cannot be addressed with braces alone.

Overall, jaw surgery is recommended for patients with significant structural issues affecting the alignment and function of the jaws, teeth, and facial features. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if jaw surgery is the right treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and the potential outcomes.
  2. Pre-surgical preparation including dental molds, X-rays, and possibly orthodontic treatment to align the teeth.
  3. Planning and discussion of the surgical procedure, including potential risks and benefits.
  4. Pre-operative appointments with the surgical team to go over the procedure and address any concerns.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate recovery in the hospital or surgical center, followed by a period of rest and healing at home.
  2. Pain management and follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor progress.
  3. Gradual return to normal activities, including eating and speaking.
  4. Post-operative orthodontic treatment to further align the teeth and ensure proper jaw function.
  5. Long-term follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any complications that may arise.
  6. Enjoying the benefits of improved jaw function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of jaw surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How will the surgery affect my ability to breathe and speak post-operatively?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to help speed up the recovery process?
  5. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery impact my overall facial appearance and alignment of my teeth?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before deciding on surgery?
  8. How many surgeries of this type have you performed and what is your success rate?
  9. What should I expect in terms of pain management and follow-up care after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with more information or resources to help me better understand the procedure and its potential outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Nomura T, Sasaki A, Fujimoto M, Mano M, Suda N, Kondo K. Journal: Orthod Craniofac Res. 2023 Aug;26(3):311-319. doi: 10.1111/ocr.12627. Epub 2022 Dec 30. PMID: 36534312