Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new method of planning and carrying out facial surgery (specifically orthognathic surgery) where the surgery is done first, instead of the traditional approach of having braces and other orthodontic treatments before surgery. Doctors used 3D printing and computer software to plan the surgery and create patient-specific tools like cutting guides and implants. They used 3D scans of the patient’s skull and teeth in the planning process. This approach has been successful in several patients, and the research suggests it could improve outcomes and reduce the time it takes to treat patients who need this type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the new method discussed for carrying out orthognathic surgery?
  2. How does 3D printing and computer software contribute to the planning and execution of orthognathic surgery?
  3. What are the potential benefits of this new approach to orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This may include following a specific diet, taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding certain activities that could impact the healing process. By following these instructions, the patient can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended for patients with severe misalignment of the jaws, also known as dentofacial deformities. These deformities can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, trauma, or developmental abnormalities.

Common types of patients who may be recommended for orthognathic surgery include those with:

  1. Severe overbite or underbite: When the upper or lower jaw protrudes significantly, causing an improper bite alignment.

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

  3. Difficulty chewing or speaking: Misaligned jaws can impact a person’s ability to chew food properly or speak clearly.

  4. Obstructive sleep apnea: A condition where the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, often due to a small or recessed jaw.

  5. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Misaligned jaws can put excess pressure on the TMJ, leading to pain, clicking, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.

  6. Aesthetic concerns: Some patients may seek orthognathic surgery for cosmetic reasons, to improve the overall balance and harmony of their facial features.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or orthodontist to determine if orthognathic surgery is the best treatment option for their specific condition. The decision to undergo surgery should be carefully considered, taking into account the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if orthognathic surgery is necessary.
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery.
  3. Comprehensive dental and medical evaluations to ensure the patient is a good candidate for surgery.
  4. Virtual surgical planning using 3D imaging technology to create a personalized surgical plan.
  5. Pre-operative appointments to discuss the surgery, recovery process, and post-operative care.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Hospital stay for a few days following surgery to monitor the patient’s recovery.
  2. Post-operative appointments with the surgeon to check on healing progress and adjust any medications.
  3. Gradual return to normal activities, with a focus on maintaining a soft diet and good oral hygiene.
  4. Continued orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and ensure long-term stability.
  5. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and orthodontist to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  6. Over time, the patient will experience improved facial symmetry, function, and overall satisfaction with their appearance.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  2. What are the expected outcomes and benefits of undergoing orthognathic surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process, and what can I expect during the recovery period?
  4. Will I need to undergo orthodontic treatment before or after the surgery?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the associated risks?
  6. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery, and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes before or after the surgery?
  8. How will my facial appearance and function be affected by the surgery?
  9. Will I need to wear any appliances or use any special tools after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition, and how do they compare to orthognathic surgery in terms of effectiveness and recovery time?

Reference

Authors: Ebker T, Korn P, Heiland M, Bumann A. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2022 Oct;60(8):1092-1096. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2022.04.008. Epub 2022 Apr 29. PMID: 35835610