Our Summary

The researchers looked at the effects of a less invasive treatment method for a condition called bilateral condylar resorption, which can occur after a type of corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery). They reviewed the records of 730 patients who had undergone this surgery between 2013 and 2016. Patients with certain conditions were excluded from the study.

Out of the 730 patients, only 6 (less than 1%) needed treatment for bilateral condylar resorption after their surgery. None of these 6 patients needed additional surgery at the joint connecting the jaw to the skull (the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ). Five of these patients who had symptoms related to their jaw joint due to the resorption were successfully managed with conservative (less invasive) treatment.

Two of the six patients had successful follow-up corrective jaw surgery in the upper jaw to address an issue called an open bite. The researchers concluded that the symptoms related to the jaw joint can be successfully managed with less invasive therapy, while skeletal issues can be addressed with further corrective jaw surgery in the upper jaw, depending on the specific case.

Overall, while it’s possible for patients to develop bilateral condylar resorption after corrective jaw surgery, the chance is less than 1%. For those who do develop this condition, most can be treated successfully with less invasive methods.

FAQs

  1. What was the aim of the study on bilateral condylar resorption after orthognathic surgery?
  2. What was the rate of patients who required treatment due to bilateral postoperative condylar resorption in this study?
  3. How were patients with TMJ symptoms due to postoperative condylar resorption managed in this study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow postoperative care instructions carefully, including any recommendations for jaw exercises or physical therapy. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns promptly. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits that put excessive strain on the jaw, such as chewing gum or clenching your teeth, can help promote successful recovery after jaw surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for jaw surgery typically include those with severe malocclusion, significant jaw discrepancies, facial asymmetry, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, or other functional or aesthetic concerns that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. Additionally, patients with postoperative complications such as bilateral condylar resorption may also be recommended for jaw surgery to address these issues.

Timeline

  • Before jaw surgery:
  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the need for jaw surgery and potential treatment options.
  2. Pre-surgical evaluation including physical examination, dental impressions, and imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
  3. Planning and preparation for surgery, including discussion of the surgical procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care instructions.
  • After jaw surgery:
  1. Immediate post-operative care in the hospital or surgical center, including pain management and monitoring for complications.
  2. Recovery period at home, which may include a liquid or soft food diet, pain medication, and instructions for oral hygiene.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or complications.
  4. Rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain jaw function and improve bite alignment.
  5. Long-term follow-up to assess the results of the surgery and address any ongoing issues, such as TMJ symptoms or skeletal relapse.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the likelihood of developing bilateral condylar resorption after jaw surgery?
  2. What are the symptoms of postoperative condylar resorption and how can they be managed?
  3. What conservative treatments are available for managing postoperative condylar resorption?
  4. How will postoperative condylar resorption affect the long-term outcome of the jaw surgery?
  5. What are the potential risks and complications associated with treating postoperative condylar resorption?
  6. How will postoperative condylar resorption impact the function and aesthetics of my jaw and face?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available for managing postoperative condylar resorption?
  8. How will postoperative condylar resorption be monitored and evaluated during the recovery process?
  9. What is the success rate of conservative treatment for postoperative condylar resorption?
  10. Will additional surgery be necessary to address any skeletal relapse or functional issues resulting from postoperative condylar resorption?

Reference

Authors: Politis C, Van De Vyvere G, Agbaje JO. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2019 Jan;30(1):169-174. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000004837. PMID: 30358743