Our Summary

This research paper is about the most cited articles on orthognathic surgery - a type of surgery that corrects conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, or other problems. The authors conducted a retrospective study, looking back at past data and articles, to create a list of the top 100 most cited articles on this topic. They used Google Scholar and Dimensions for the search and followed STROBE guidelines, a set of recommendations on what should be included in an observational study.

The authors found that the most cited topics were about virtual planning and complications in orthognathic surgery. They also noticed an increasing interest in “surgery first” approach and a connection between sleep apnea and this type of surgery.

The study concludes that while it takes some work to do this kind of analysis using free tools like Google Scholar and Dimensions, it’s a valuable way for healthcare professionals, students, and academics to stay updated on the topic. The authors also highlight the importance of using the right keywords to make sure articles are found and cited by others.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and what conditions does it correct?
  2. What were the most cited topics in orthognathic surgery according to the research paper?
  3. What tools and guidelines did the authors use to conduct their research on the most cited articles on orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This can include things like maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods or activities, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and optimal results. It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team and ask any questions you may have along the way to ensure a successful outcome.

Suitable For

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

  1. Severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth and jaws)
  2. Skeletal discrepancies in the jaws, such as underbite, overbite, or crossbite
  3. Facial asymmetry
  4. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  5. Obstructive sleep apnea
  6. Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing due to jaw abnormalities
  7. Facial trauma or deformities
  8. Congenital conditions affecting the jaw and face

Orthognathic surgery is often recommended for patients who have tried other treatments, such as orthodontics, with limited success. The surgery can improve the function and aesthetics of the jaw and face, leading to better overall quality of life for the patient.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient consults with orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options.
  2. Orthodontic treatment may be necessary to align teeth before surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans to assess jaw structure.
  4. Treatment plan is developed, including surgical goals and outcomes.
  5. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparation, which may include medical evaluations and instructions for the day of surgery.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to reposition the jaw and correct any structural issues.
  2. Recovery period begins, which may involve pain management and dietary restrictions.
  3. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed.
  4. Orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune the position of the teeth and jaw.
  5. Patient experiences improved facial aesthetics, bite function, and possibly resolution of sleep apnea or other related issues.
  6. Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor the stability of the surgical results and address any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What specific issues or conditions can orthognathic surgery address?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after orthognathic surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow a specific diet or lifestyle changes before and after the surgery?
  5. How will my appearance and function of my jaw and face change after the surgery?
  6. What are the alternatives to orthognathic surgery, and why is this the recommended treatment for me?
  7. How experienced is the surgeon in performing orthognathic surgery?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments before or after orthognathic surgery?
  10. What kind of follow-up care will be necessary after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Grillo R. Journal: J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 Nov;79(11):2339-2349. doi: 10.1016/j.joms.2021.06.004. Epub 2021 Jun 8. PMID: 34245705