Our Summary

This research aimed to figure out if a rise in white blood cell count after jaw surgery is a normal reaction or a sign of infection. The study involved examining the blood count of 83 patients who had 93 jaw surgeries over the course of six years. The results showed that the white blood cell count was at its highest on the first day after surgery, and then dropped slightly on the second day, but was still double the count before surgery. It was also found that nearly all patients (93.5%) had a higher than normal count of white blood cells after surgery. Factors like gender, how long the surgery took, and the count of white blood cells before the surgery affected the count after surgery. However, the number of white blood cells before the surgery was the only factor that significantly predicted if the patient would have a higher than normal count of white blood cells after surgery. The study concluded that an increase in white blood cells after jaw surgery is significantly influenced by the count before surgery. This increase is much more common and follows a similar pattern to other types of surgery, not just jaw surgery.

FAQs

  1. Is an increase in white blood cell count after jaw surgery a normal reaction or a sign of infection?
  2. What factors were found to affect the white blood cell count after jaw surgery?
  3. Does the number of white blood cells before the surgery significantly predict if the patient will have a higher than normal count of white blood cells after the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to expect an increase in white blood cell count after the surgery. This is a normal reaction to the procedure and is not necessarily a sign of infection. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor the recovery process.

Suitable For

Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth and jaws) that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. This includes patients with:

  1. Severe underbite or overbite
  2. Difficulty chewing or biting
  3. Jaw pain or dysfunction
  4. Speech difficulties
  5. Breathing problems due to jaw misalignment
  6. Facial asymmetry
  7. TMJ disorders

Patients who have completed their growth and have good oral hygiene are usually considered good candidates for orthognathic surgery. Additionally, patients should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery and be willing to comply with post-operative care and follow-up appointments.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to determine the need for surgery
  2. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery
  3. Pre-operative appointments and tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and blood work
  4. Discussion of treatment plan, risks, and expectations with the surgical team
  5. Consent and scheduling of surgery

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Immediate recovery in the hospital or surgical center, typically staying overnight
  2. Swelling, bruising, and pain in the face and jaw for the first few days
  3. Soft diet and limited jaw movement for several weeks
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed
  5. Gradual return to normal activities and diet over the following weeks and months
  6. Post-surgical orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the teeth
  7. Long-term follow-up to ensure the success of the surgery and address any complications or concerns

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. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to promote healing after surgery?
  3. Will I need to follow a specific diet or take any medications after surgery?
  4. How long will I need to be off work or school after the procedure?
  5. What are the long-term outcomes and benefits of orthognathic surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  7. Will I need to wear braces before or after the surgery, and for how long?
  8. How many orthognathic surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide me with before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery?
  10. How will orthognathic surgery improve my overall oral health and quality of life?

Reference

Authors: Al-Shayyab MH, Al-Omiri MK, Ryalat S, Qabbaah K, Baqain ZH. Journal: J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2019 Nov;120(5):443-449. doi: 10.1016/j.jormas.2018.12.013. Epub 2019 Jan 1. PMID: 30609385