Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new procedure for patients who are having jaw surgery and also suffer from blocked noses. Usually, surgeons can perform procedures through the mouth to help with this, but these don’t always fix the problem if the sides of the nose are collapsing. The authors of this study have developed a new technique where they take some cartilage from inside the nose and use it to support the sides of the nose. This procedure is done through the mouth, it’s simple to do, doesn’t cause a lot of harm, and can help improve the patient’s ability to breathe through their nose.

FAQs

  1. What is the new procedure discussed in the research paper for patients having jaw surgery with blocked noses?
  2. How is the new technique performed and what is it expected to improve?
  3. Does the new technique for supporting the sides of the nose cause any harm to the patient?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow a soft diet for a period of time after the surgery to allow the jaw to heal properly. This may include foods such as soups, smoothies, yogurt, and mashed potatoes to avoid putting too much strain on the jaw while it is still recovering. Additionally, the doctor may recommend avoiding hard or chewy foods, as well as foods that require a lot of jaw movement, to prevent any complications or delays in the healing process. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery from jaw surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery are those who have misaligned jaws, facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or speaking, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or other issues related to the structure and function of the jaw. These patients may have tried other treatments such as orthodontics or physical therapy without success, and jaw surgery may be recommended as a last resort to correct their condition.

In the case of the new procedure discussed in the research paper, patients who are also experiencing blocked noses may benefit from this innovative technique. These patients may have difficulty breathing through their nose due to collapsed nasal passages, which can be exacerbated by jaw surgery. By using cartilage from inside the nose to support the sides of the nose during jaw surgery, this new procedure can help improve the patient’s nasal airflow and overall quality of life.

It is important for patients considering jaw surgery to consult with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if they are good candidates for the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s individual case, medical history, and treatment goals to determine the most appropriate course of action. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of jaw surgery and discuss any concerns or questions with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and potential risks.
  2. Pre-operative appointments to discuss the surgical plan, obtain imaging scans, and finalize details.
  3. Pre-operative instructions including fasting before surgery, medication adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.
  4. Anesthesia is administered before the surgery begins.
  5. The surgeon performs the jaw surgery, which may involve realigning the jaw, correcting bite issues, or addressing facial asymmetry.
  6. Post-operative care includes pain management, wound care, and monitoring for complications.
  7. Recovery process includes a liquid or soft diet, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and gradually subside over the following weeks.
  2. Pain and discomfort may be managed with prescribed medications.
  3. Gradual return to normal activities including regular diet, exercise, and work.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  5. Physical therapy to improve jaw function and range of motion.
  6. Long-term monitoring for any potential complications or need for additional procedures.
  7. Overall improvement in jaw function, facial appearance, and quality of life for the patient.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of jaw surgery do I need and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with jaw surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  4. Will I need to follow a specific diet or have any restrictions after the surgery?
  5. Will there be any changes to my facial appearance after the surgery?
  6. How will jaw surgery affect my ability to speak, chew, and swallow?
  7. Will I need to wear braces or use any other orthodontic appliances before or after the surgery?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures, such as the one discussed in the research paper, to address any related issues like blocked noses?
  9. How experienced are you in performing jaw surgery and what is your success rate?
  10. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery and what are the chances of needing additional surgeries in the future?

Reference

Authors: Garg RK, Vance DT, O’Connor MK. Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg. 2023 Dec 1;152(6):1328-1331. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000010430. Epub 2023 Mar 21. PMID: 36940157