Our Summary

This research paper is about a review of the use of minimally invasive techniques in orthognathic surgery, which is surgery to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, malocclusion problems owing to skeletal disharmonies, or other orthodontic problems. The researchers looked at all the scientific articles they could find in English on this topic, and found 403 of them. They then focused on 44 articles that specifically discussed the potential for minimally invasive procedures in orthognathic surgery.

These articles were broken down into three categories: those that talked about a minimally invasive surgical approach, those that discussed using an endoscope (a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera at one end) to assist with the surgery, and those that talked about using a piezoelectric device (a tool that uses vibrations to cut bone without damaging surrounding soft tissue) in the surgery. Most of the articles (90.9%) mentioned the endoscope and piezoelectric instrument as important tools in minimally invasive orthognathic surgery.

The review found that patients who had minimally invasive orthognathic surgery generally had less complications and recovered more quickly. However, the researchers conclude that more research is needed to provide stronger evidence.

FAQs

  1. What is minimally invasive orthognathic surgery?
  2. What tools are commonly used in minimally invasive orthognathic surgery?
  3. What are the potential benefits of minimally invasive orthognathic surgery, according to the review?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including maintaining good oral hygiene, sticking to a soft diet, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to avoid strenuous activities and follow any restrictions on chewing or opening the mouth wide to allow for proper healing. Additionally, communicating any concerns or changes in symptoms to the doctor promptly can help ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth and jaws), facial asymmetry, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and other skeletal disharmonies that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. These patients may experience difficulties with chewing, speaking, breathing, and overall facial aesthetics.

In addition, patients who have undergone orthodontic treatment but still have persistent issues with their bite or facial structure may also be candidates for jaw surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist and oral surgeon to determine if jaw surgery is the best course of treatment for their specific condition.

Overall, patients who are recommended for jaw surgery are those who have significant functional or aesthetic concerns related to their jaw and facial structure that cannot be effectively addressed with orthodontic treatment alone. Minimally invasive techniques in orthognathic surgery may offer these patients a less invasive and more efficient treatment option with reduced risk of complications and faster recovery times.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Patient consults with an orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align teeth and prepare for surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes various pre-surgical tests and evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Surgical plan is developed based on the patient’s specific needs and goals.
  5. Patient undergoes jaw surgery, which may involve traditional or minimally invasive techniques.
  6. Patient is monitored closely post-surgery for any complications or issues.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Patient experiences swelling, discomfort, and difficulty eating and speaking in the days following surgery.
  2. Patient follows a strict post-operative care plan, including taking pain medication, eating soft foods, and attending follow-up appointments.
  3. Patient gradually resumes normal activities as they heal, with full recovery typically taking several weeks to months.
  4. Patient may undergo additional orthodontic treatment to fine-tune their bite and alignment.
  5. Patient experiences improved jaw function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life following successful jaw surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery include:

  1. What specific type of jaw surgery do I need and why?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this type of surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be?
  4. Will I need to follow a specific diet or lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of functionality and aesthetics?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or procedures before the surgery?
  8. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions that I need to follow?

Reference

Authors: AlAsseri N, Swennen G. Journal: Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2018 Oct;47(10):1299-1310. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2018.04.017. Epub 2018 May 29. PMID: 29857982