Our Summary

This research paper talks about the progress made in orthognathic surgery over the past 100 years. Orthognathic surgery is a type of surgery that corrects 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. In particular, the paper focuses on advancements made in the last two decades such as improved accuracy through computer-assisted planning, the use of patient-specific methods to secure the surgery, a wider range of conditions that can be treated particularly those involving upper airway obstruction and changes in how surgery and orthodontics are combined. The goal of the paper is to provide a summary of the current state-of-the-art in orthognathic surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and what problems does it address?
  2. What advancements have been made in orthognathic surgery in the past twenty years?
  3. What is the role of computer-assisted planning and patient-specific fixation in contemporary orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications. It is also important to communicate any concerns or questions with the surgeon before and after the procedure.

Suitable For

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

  1. Malocclusions or misalignments of the jaw, teeth, or bite
  2. Facial trauma or injury affecting the jaw or facial bones
  3. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  4. Sleep apnea or other upper airway obstruction issues
  5. Cleft lip and palate deformities
  6. Severe dental infections or abscesses
  7. Impacted wisdom teeth
  8. Tumors or cysts in the jaw or mouth
  9. Severe gum disease or periodontal problems
  10. Cosmetic concerns such as facial asymmetry or protrusion of the jaw.

Overall, oral surgery may be recommended for patients who require complex or extensive treatment that cannot be addressed through more conservative dental procedures. It is important for patients to consult with an oral surgeon to determine if they are candidates for oral surgery and to discuss their treatment options.

Timeline

Before Oral Surgery:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with the oral surgeon to discuss the reasons for the surgery, potential risks and benefits, and to create a treatment plan.
  2. Pre-operative appointments: The patient may undergo various tests, such as X-rays or blood work, to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Preparing for surgery: The patient may be instructed to stop taking certain medications, avoid eating or drinking before the surgery, and arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.

After Oral Surgery:

  1. Recovery: The patient will be monitored in a recovery room immediately after surgery until they are stable. They may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  2. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have follow-up appointments with the oral surgeon to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns.
  3. Long-term care: The patient may need to follow a special diet, take prescribed medications, and attend physical therapy sessions to aid in their recovery.
  4. Final results: Over time, the patient will see the final results of the surgery, which may include improved function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific oral surgery procedure do I need and why?
  2. What are the benefits and risks of this procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative instructions or precautions?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure and what are the potential side effects?
  6. How many surgeries of this type have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered?
  8. Will I need to see a specialist or undergo any additional tests before the surgery?
  9. How much will the procedure cost and will my insurance cover it?
  10. What long-term effects or complications should I be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Zammit D, Ettinger RE, Sanati-Mehrizy P, Susarla SM. Journal: Medicina (Kaunas). 2023 Nov 30;59(12):2100. doi: 10.3390/medicina59122100. PMID: 38138203