Our Summary

This research paper is about a condition known as condylar resorption that can occur before or after a type of facial surgery called orthognathic surgery. Condylar resorption is when the part of the jaw joint known as the condyle, starts to deteriorate or shrink. This is important because it can affect when and how the surgery is performed. It can also cause deformities to return after surgery and impact the long-term success of the surgery.

In this study, the researchers reviewed previously published scientific studies on condylar resorption management. They looked at studies on PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register up until October 2018. They found ten studies with a total of 180 patients that met their criteria.

The researchers found that condylar resorption can be influenced by many different factors. How it is managed before or after surgery should depend on how severe it is. However, they noted that the studies they reviewed had small sample sizes and varied in their methods and outcomes. They conclude that more high-quality studies on how to treat condylar resorption are needed.

FAQs

  1. What is condylar resorption and why is it important in orthognathic surgery?
  2. What factors can influence condylar resorption according to the research study?
  3. What are the recommendations of the researchers for managing condylar resorption before or after surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow the recommended post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications, including condylar resorption. It is important to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and address any concerns promptly. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits like smoking can help promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for orthognathic surgery include those with severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth), facial asymmetry, sleep apnea, difficulty chewing or speaking, and facial deformities. These patients may have tried other treatments such as braces or dental appliances but have not seen significant improvement in their condition. Additionally, patients with condylar resorption may also be recommended for orthognathic surgery to correct any deformities or complications caused by the resorption.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after orthognathic surgery may look something like this:

Before surgery:

  • Patient consults with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their concerns and goals for surgery
  • Patient undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine the best treatment plan
  • Patient may need to wear braces for a period of time to prepare for surgery
  • Patient may undergo pre-surgical procedures such as jaw repositioning tests or orthodontic adjustments

During surgery:

  • Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct the alignment of the jaw and facial bones
  • Surgeon may need to reposition the jaw, chin, or other facial bones to achieve the desired result
  • Surgery may involve cutting and repositioning bones, as well as using screws, plates, or wires to stabilize the bones

After surgery:

  • Patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including pain management and dietary restrictions
  • Patient will likely experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days and weeks following surgery
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress
  • Patient may need to continue orthodontic treatment to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and jaw
  • Patient may need to undergo physical therapy or speech therapy to regain strength and function in the jaw and facial muscles

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after orthognathic surgery can vary depending on the individual case and the specific treatment plan. However, with proper care and follow-up, patients can achieve significant improvements in their facial appearance and function.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about orthognathic surgery and condylar resorption may include:

  1. What is condylar resorption and how does it affect orthognathic surgery?
  2. What are the risk factors for developing condylar resorption before or after surgery?
  3. How will you monitor for condylar resorption before and after surgery?
  4. What are the treatment options if condylar resorption occurs?
  5. How will condylar resorption impact the long-term success of the orthognathic surgery?
  6. Are there any preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of condylar resorption?
  7. What is the likelihood of developing condylar resorption based on my individual case?
  8. How will condylar resorption be managed in conjunction with the orthognathic surgery plan?
  9. Are there any specific post-operative instructions or precautions I should follow to minimize the risk of condylar resorption?
  10. What are the potential complications associated with condylar resorption and how will they be addressed if they occur?

Reference

Authors: He Z, Ji H, Du W, Xu C, Luo E. Journal: J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2019 Jul;47(7):1007-1014. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2019.03.012. Epub 2019 Mar 15. PMID: 30929993