Our Summary

This research paper is a summary of articles about planning for orthognathic surgery (a type of 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 that cannot be easily treated with braces) with the help of computer technology. These articles were published in two major national publications that focus on oral and maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics. The goal of this article is to keep readers informed about the latest research in this quickly evolving field. The technology in focus here is CAD/CAM, which stands for Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing, a technology that assists in the creation of precise and customized design and production. In this context, it’s used for surgical planning.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of the recent literature in the field of orthognathic surgical planning and computerised technology?
  2. How is CAD/CAM technology utilized in orthognathic surgical planning?
  3. What advancements have been made in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery using computerized planning?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, including any dietary restrictions, medication guidelines, and preparation for the recovery period. It is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team and ask any questions you may have about the procedure or post-operative care. Additionally, be sure to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and optimal results.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with severe malocclusion, skeletal discrepancies, facial asymmetry, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, and craniofacial anomalies. These patients may experience difficulty with chewing, speaking, breathing, or have aesthetic concerns that can be addressed through orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery is often recommended in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes. Computerised technology, such as CAD/CAM software, plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of orthognathic surgery, allowing for precise surgical movements and improved postoperative outcomes.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  • Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and goals
  • Pre-surgical evaluations and tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, to assess the condition of the jaw and facial structure
  • Orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare for surgery
  • Development of a treatment plan and surgical approach with the maxillofacial surgeon and orthodontist

After maxillofacial surgery:

  • Recovery period, which may include pain management and swelling reduction
  • Follow-up appointments with the maxillofacial surgeon to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed
  • Orthodontic adjustments to maintain the results of the surgery and continue aligning the teeth
  • Long-term maintenance and monitoring of the jaw and facial structure to ensure continued success of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of maxillofacial surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period for this type of surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?
  5. Will I need to follow a specific diet or take any medications before or after the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery impact my facial appearance and function?
  7. What is the success rate of this type of surgery?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in the future?
  9. How can I prepare for the surgery both physically and mentally?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions that I should follow?

Reference

Authors: Walshaw E, Taylor R. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2020 Dec;58(10):e312-e316. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.08.058. Epub 2020 Aug 19. PMID: 33059895