Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery is a type of operation used to fix irregularities in the upper and lower jaw. This surgery can have an impact on a patient’s airways, which is why it’s important to plan these operations carefully to avoid any damage. This study aimed to look at how the airways change over time after this kind of surgery. To do this, the researchers looked through various databases for relevant studies. From the initial 930 articles they found, they ended up with eight studies that fit their criteria. Their analysis showed that a patient’s airways do change after orthognathic surgery, regardless of their facial structure. Interestingly, they also found that the airways often try to go back to their original size, but none of the studies showed a complete return even six years post-surgery. The researchers concluded that more studies need to be done to better understand these changes to the airways after orthognathic surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and why is it important to plan these operations carefully?
  2. What did the research study find about changes to a patient’s airways after orthognathic surgery?
  3. Why do researchers believe more studies are needed on the impact of orthognathic surgery on the airways?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include following a specific diet, taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain activities that could impact the surgical site. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and practicing jaw exercises as recommended by the surgeon can also help with recovery and improve long-term outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery include those with:

  1. Severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth)
  2. Facial asymmetry
  3. Difficulty chewing or biting
  4. Speech problems
  5. Obstructive sleep apnea
  6. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  7. Chronic jaw pain
  8. Cleft lip and palate deformities

It is important for patients considering jaw surgery to consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-surgical workup including X-rays, CT scans, and dental impressions to plan the surgery.
  3. Orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare for surgery.
  4. Pre-operative appointments to discuss the surgical procedure, risks, and post-operative care.

After jaw surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the hospital with pain management and monitoring.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and remove any sutures.
  3. Gradual return to normal activities and a soft diet to allow the jaw to heal.
  4. Continued orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the jaw.
  5. Long-term follow-up appointments to monitor the results of the surgery and address any concerns or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific jaw irregularities will this surgery correct?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. How will this surgery impact my ability to speak, chew, and breathe?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before deciding on surgery?
  7. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery?
  8. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone this surgery?
  9. Will I need to have any additional procedures or treatments in conjunction with the orthognathic surgery?
  10. What are the long-term effects of this surgery on my jaw structure and airways?

Reference

Authors: Daluz ADJ, da Silva TVS, Tôrres BO, Costa DFN, Santos LAM. Journal: J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022 Apr;123(2):191-198. doi: 10.1016/j.jormas.2021.04.006. Epub 2021 Apr 18. PMID: 33882343