Our Summary

This research paper discusses a surgical procedure called distraction osteogenesis, which was developed to address severe skeletal abnormalities in the face and skull that traditional orthognathic surgery couldn’t fix. The study found that distraction osteogenesis not only improved the stability of the skeleton, but also enhanced the patient’s facial appearance. The authors of the paper review 22 cases where they used this method to treat patients with dental and facial bone abnormalities and achieved better results than they think they could have with traditional techniques. The procedure also allowed for more precise adjustments and the ability to expand the bite area at the same time.

FAQs

  1. What is distraction osteogenesis and why was it developed?
  2. How does distraction osteogenesis improve the stability of the skeleton and enhance a patient’s facial appearance?
  3. How does the distraction osteogenesis procedure differ from traditional orthognathic surgery techniques?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering orthognathic surgery that distraction osteogenesis can be a successful option for correcting severe skeletal abnormalities in the face and skull that traditional surgery may not be able to fully address. This procedure can improve stability, enhance facial appearance, and allow for more precise adjustments compared to traditional techniques. It may also allow for expansion of the bite area simultaneously. It’s important to discuss with your doctor all available options and determine the best course of action for your individual needs.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery are those with severe skeletal abnormalities in the face and skull that cannot be corrected with traditional methods. This includes patients with:

  1. Severe malocclusions (misalignment of the teeth and jaws)
  2. Facial asymmetry
  3. Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw misalignment
  4. Sleep apnea or other breathing problems caused by facial abnormalities
  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  6. Birth defects affecting the facial skeleton
  7. Traumatic injuries to the face and jaws

Patients who have tried other non-surgical treatments, such as braces or orthodontic appliances, but have not seen significant improvements in their condition may also be recommended for orthognathic surgery. Additionally, patients who have aesthetic concerns about the appearance of their face due to skeletal abnormalities may also benefit from this type of surgery.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Consultation with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery.
  3. Pre-operative appointments to discuss the surgical plan, risks, and expectations with the surgical team.
  4. Pre-surgical tests and evaluations to ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Initial recovery period in the hospital or outpatient facility, where the patient may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty eating and speaking.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and address any complications.
  3. Post-operative orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the teeth.
  4. Regular follow-up appointments with the orthodontist and oral surgeon to track progress and ensure long-term success of the surgery.
  5. Gradual improvement in facial appearance and function as the jaw heals and the bite stabilizes.

Overall, the timeline for a patient undergoing orthognathic surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the case and individual healing factors. However, with proper planning and post-operative care, patients can achieve significant improvements in both their facial aesthetics and functional bite alignment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  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 special diet or take any medications after the surgery?

  4. How long will I need to wear braces before and after the surgery?

  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery and how soon will I see results?

  6. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments in conjunction with orthognathic surgery?

  7. What are the alternative treatment options available for my condition?

  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes I will need to make before or after the surgery?

  9. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery and what is your success rate with similar cases?

  10. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery with similar conditions?

Reference

Authors: Vinzenz K, Patel PK, Cohen M. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2023 Sep 1;34(6):1692-1698. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000009475. Epub 2023 Jun 19. PMID: 37336505