Our Summary

This research paper investigates patient experiences with a treatment method called hilotherapy after undergoing orthognathic surgery, which is surgery that corrects conditions that affect the jaw and face. In this survey, they asked 45 people who have had this surgery and used hilotherapy about their experiences. The majority of the participants found the Hilotherm mask, which is used in hilotherapy, comfortable and were willing to use it at home. Most of them were also willing to pay for the rental service of the mask. This overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests that using hilotherapy at home after orthognathic surgery could potentially improve recovery and comfort for patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the effect of hilotherapy following orthognathic surgery?
  2. What was the patient experience with using the Hilotherm mask following orthognathic surgery?
  3. What is the potential benefit of at-home use of hilotherapy after orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to consider using hilotherapy following the procedure to help reduce postoperative pain and swelling. Many patients find the Hilotherm mask to be comfortable and are willing to use it at home, suggesting that this cooling therapy may enhance recovery and improve overall comfort during the healing process.

Suitable For

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is typically recommended for patients with the following conditions:

  1. Severe malocclusion: When the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, causing difficulty with biting, chewing, and speaking.

  2. Facial asymmetry: When one side of the face is noticeably different in size or shape compared to the other side.

  3. Sleep apnea: Orthognathic surgery can help correct obstructive sleep apnea by repositioning the jaws and opening up the airway.

  4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: When the jaw joint is misaligned, causing pain, clicking, or locking of the jaw.

  5. Difficulty in breathing: Orthognathic surgery can help improve the alignment of the jaws and open up the airway for patients who have difficulty breathing due to jaw positioning.

Overall, orthognathic surgery is recommended for patients who have significant jaw and facial abnormalities that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. Patients considering orthognathic surgery should consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine if they are good candidates for the procedure.

Timeline

  • Before orthognathic surgery:
  1. Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss the need for surgery and potential treatment options.
  2. Preoperative assessments such as dental impressions, X-rays, and possibly a CT scan to plan the surgery.
  3. Preoperative instructions including dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and other preparations for the surgery.
  • Day of orthognathic surgery:
  1. Patient arrives at the hospital or surgical center and undergoes anesthesia induction.
  2. Surgeon performs the planned osteotomies on the upper and lower jaw to correct the alignment issues.
  3. Surgery typically lasts a few hours, after which the patient is taken to the recovery room.
  • Post-surgery:
  1. Patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising around the jaw and face.
  2. Patients are typically kept in the hospital for a day or two for observation and pain management.
  3. Patients are given postoperative instructions including dietary restrictions, medication regimen, and care of the surgical site.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and adjust treatment as needed.
  5. In some cases, patients may undergo orthodontic treatment to further correct their bite alignment.
  • After orthognathic surgery:
  1. Patients gradually resume normal activities and diet as directed by their surgeon.
  2. Swelling and bruising typically peak within the first few days and gradually subside over the following weeks.
  3. Patients may experience some discomfort and difficulty eating during the initial recovery period.
  4. Orthodontic treatment may continue for several months to fine-tune the bite alignment.
  5. Patients continue to follow up with their surgeon and orthodontist to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  3. Will I need to follow a specific diet or lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  4. How will orthognathic surgery improve my bite and facial structure?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the risks associated with it?
  6. Will I need braces before or after the surgery?
  7. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  8. What are the alternative treatment options to orthognathic surgery?
  9. How long will the results of the surgery last?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with orthognathic surgery that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Mahendran K, Garg M, Armstrong D, Sneddon K. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022 Feb;60(2):204-206. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2021.05.006. Epub 2021 May 11. PMID: 35042647