Intra- and Postoperative Complications of Le Fort I Maxillary Osteotomy

Morphological Evaluation and Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Reparative Potential of the Buccal Fat Pad

Background and Objectives: There are many surgical techniques for oroantral communication treatment, one of which is the buccal fat pad. Of particular interest is the high reparative potential of the buccal fat pad, which may be contributed to by the presence of mesenchymal stem cells. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the reparative potential of BFP cells using morphological and immunohistochemical examination. Materials and Methods: 30 BFP samples were provided by the Clinic of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery of the Russian University of Medicine (Moscow, Russia) from 28 patients. Morphological examination of 30 BFP samples was performed at the Institute of Clinical Morphology and Digital Pathology of Sechenov University. Hematoxylin-eosin, Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemical examination were performed to detect MSCs using primary antibodies CD133, CD44 and CD10. Results: During staining with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome, we detected adipocytes of white adipose tissue united into lobules separated by connective tissue layers, a large number of vessels of different calibers, as well as the general capsule of BFP. The thin connective tissue layers contained neurovascular bundles. Statistical processing of the results of the IHC examination of the samples using the Mann-Whitney criterion revealed that the total number of samples in which the expression of CD44, CD10 and CD133 antigens was confirmed was statistically significantly higher than the number of samples where the expression was not detected (p < 0.05). Conclusions: During the morphological study of the BFP samples, we revealed statistically significant signs of MSCs presence (p < 0.05), including in the brown fat tissue, which proves the high reparative potential of this type of tissue and can make the BFP a choice option among other autogenous donor materials when eliminating OAC and other surgical interventions in the maxillofacial region.

Le fort I osteotomy with or without concomitant removal of upper third molars: A prospective cohort study of intraoperative findings, related complications, and level of pterygomaxillary separation after down-fracture

The main objective of our study was to assess the clinical implications of concomitant intraoperative removal of maxillary third molars (M3M) with the Le Fort I osteotomy 'twist' technique (LF1twist). A prospective comparative study was carried out regarding the necessity of bone trimming around the pedicle, intra- and postoperative complications, surgery time, and the level of pterygomaxillary junction (PMJ) separation following LF1twist with concomitant intraoperative removal of M3M (test group) versus LF1twist alone (control group). Outcome parameters were assessed from clinical and radiographic measurements. In total, 100 surgery sites were included (50 in each group). The mean surgery time was 53.4 ± 7.8 min, with nonsignificant differences between groups. The frequency of intraoperative complications was negligible, with no significant differences between groups - though all bleeding events (n = 4) occurred when M3M was not removed concomitantly. No postoperative complications were recorded. Percentages of disarticulations occurring at the PMJ were similar in both groups. In conclusion, the results demonstrate that removal of M3M in conjunction with LF1twist does not imply additional surgery time, or differences regarding the level of PMJ separation or perioperative complications. Furthermore, the concomitant procedure reduces the amount of maxillary and palatal bone in the disjunction area, which facilitates down-fracture and field clearing for maxillary repositioning.

Orthognathic Surgery in Patients With Von Willebrand's Disease: A Report of Four Cases and Literature Review

Von Willebrand's disease (VWD), characterized by quantitatively or qualitatively abnormal von Willebrand factor (VWF), is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. There is limited evidence of treatment using orthognathic surgery in patients with VWD. This report focuses on four patients with VWD who underwent orthognathic surgery and received Factor VIII/VWF concentrates (Confact F) preoperatively. One patient with type 3 (severe) VWD underwent delayed extubation owing to laryngeal edema and exhibited epistaxis thereafter. No perioperative complications were observed in any of the other patients. Two of the four patients were diagnosed with VWD during preoperative screening. Most young adults do not experience general anesthesia and, therefore, may not have undergone blood tests at a hospital. Thus, preoperative screening and adoption of a multidisciplinary approach to orthognathic surgery is important in patients with bleeding disorders such as VWD. Close communication between anesthetists, surgeons, and hematologists is essential to ensure effective management during the perioperative period.

Postoperative hemorrhage after Le Fort I osteotomy hemostasis with angiographic embolization: report of two cases

This study reported two cases of acute life-threatening hemorrhage after Le Fort I osteotomy. In both cases, computed tomography and angiography revealed damage to the descending palatine artery, which was successfully treated by angiographic embolization. Although massive hemorrhage after Le Fort I osteotomy is rare, acute hemorrhage from the postoperative area may occur. Angiographic embolization is useful in cases of such hemorrhage from the posterior nasal cavity where endoscopic hemostasis is not possible.

Complications and Associated Risk Factors for Bimaxillary Osteotomies: A 15-Year Single-center Retrospective Study

AIM

The aim of this study was to retrospectively investigate the risk factors and their association on bimaxillary osteotomies to be able to improve patient selection and bimaxillary osteotomy planning.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients treated with a bimaxillary osteotomy were included in the study. The complications were collected retrospectively from the patient data records. The effects of certain predictor variables on complication rates were also studied.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients (48.0%) suffered from peri- or postoperative complications, or both. Twenty-five various perioperative complications were reported on 25 patients (19.6%) and 63 postoperative complications on 46 patients (36.2%). Ten patients (7.8%) suffered from both perioperative and postoperative complications. The effect of various predictor variables (sex, age, general health, type of malocclusion, surgery planning, use of bone grafts, and type of maxillary or mandibular movement) on complications was investigated, but we could not find any single factor to affect significantly on complication rate.

CONCLUSION

Both perioperative and postoperative complications are common in bimaxillary surgery, which must be noted in patient preoperative information. However, life-threatening complications are rare. Patient profile, bone grafting, type of osteosynthesis, or segmentation of the maxilla do not seem to affect the complication risk.

Iatrogenic Arteriovenous Fistula between the Middle Meningeal Artery and Pterygoid Venous Plexus Secondary to a Le Fort I Osteotomy: A Case Report

Le Fort I osteotomy is a common surgical technique for correcting jaw deformities. Although it is generally a safe procedure, there have been cases of postoperative vascular complications, which include arteriovenous fistulas. Published reports describe the development of arteriovenous fistulas that originate from the maxillary artery after this procedure; nevertheless, no cases of arteriovenous fistulas arising from the middle meningeal artery (MMA) have been reported. We present the case of a 19-year-old woman who developed pulsatile tinnitus immediately following a Le Fort I osteotomy. Angiography with proximal flow control of the external carotid artery showed an arteriovenous fistula between the extracranial portion of the MMA and the pterygoid venous plexus. The fistula was successfully treated using coil embolization, preserving the maxillary artery, which results in tinnitus resolution. In this report, the effectiveness of endovascular treatment for arteriovenous fistulas of the MMA that occur following a Le Fort I osteotomy was demonstrated. Angiography with proximal flow interruption was effective in shunt location detection.

Association Between Maxillary Segmentation and Perioperative Complications in Le Fort I Osteotomy

The Le Fort I osteotomy is used to reposition the maxilla to correct numerous maxillofacial and occlusal deformities. The aim of this study was to delineate perioperative complication rates associated with Le Fort I osteotomy and determine whether the number of maxillary segments or bone grafting yielded increased complication rates. Patients undergoing Le Fort I osteotomy from 2012 to 2019 were identified from the multi-institution "National Surgical Quality Improvement Program" database using Current Procedure Terminology codes. The predictor variables of interest included maxillary segmentation defined as 1, 2, or 2 pieces and the presence or absence of bone graft. Perioperative complications were collected as the primary outcome variable, including superficial and deep space infections, wound dehiscence, airway complication, peripheral nerve injury, and hemorrhage. The secondary outcome variables included readmission and reoperation rate within the 30-day postoperative period. Complication rates were compared using multivariate analysis across groups stratified by the number of maxillary segments and inclusion of bone grafting. Of the 532 patients that met the inclusion criteria, 333 (63%) underwent 1-piece, 114 (21%) 2-piece, and 85 (16%) 2-piece Le Fort I osteotomy procedures. A total of 48 patients exhibited complications (9%), with hemorrhage (2.3%) being the most common complication observed. The number of maxillary segments was not a significant predictor of perioperative complications ( P = 0.948) nor was the use of bone grafting ( P = 0.279).

Efficacy of Nostril Supportive Splint Treatment for Nasal Septum Deformities after Le Fort I Osteotomy

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of support splint treatment for deformities and deviations of the nasal septum after Le Fort I osteotomy (LFI). Patients were divided into two groups: the retainer group wore a nasal support splint immediately after LFI for 7 days, and the no retainer group did not wear a nasal support splint. Evaluation was performed by measuring the ratio of the difference between the left and right sides of the nasal cavity area (ratio of nasal cavity) and the angle of the nasal septum using three computed tomography frontal images (anterior, middle, and posterior) before and one year postoperatively. Sixty patients were included and divided into two groups, the retainer and no retainer group (n=30 each). Regarding the ratio of nasal cavity on middle images at one year postoperatively, the retainer and no retainer groups differed significantly (0.79±0.13 and 0.67±0.24, respectively; P =0.012). The angle of the nasal septum on anterior images at one year postoperatively was 164.8±11.7° in the retainer group and 156.9±13.5° in the no retainer group, showing a significant difference ( P =0.019). This study suggests that support splint treatment after LFI is effective in preventing post-LFI nasal septal deformation or deviation.

Effect of Bone-Borne Trans -Sutural Distraction Osteogenesis Therapy on the Cranial Base of Children With Midfacial Hypoplasia Due to Cleft Lip and Palate

Bone-borne trans -sutural distraction osteogenesis (TSDO) is widely used to treat midfacial hypoplasia in children with cleft lip and palate; however, its effects on the cranial base are still poorly understood. The authors aimed to study morphological changes in the cranial base after TSDO. Pre and postoperative computed tomography (CT) images of cleft lip and palate children with midfacial skeleton dysplasia who underwent TSDO were collected retrospectively, and their corresponding 3-dimensional models were measured. Results showed no significant change in the length of the anterior or posterior cranial fossa, but the length of the middle cranial fossa increased significantly. The anterior cranial base rotated upward with the sella turcica at the center, whereas the cranial base angle increased. The sphenoid bone exhibited morphological changes. Post-TSDO, the lateral plate of the pterygoid process increased in length. The angle of the 2 lateral plates of the pterygoid process, the greater wings of the sphenoid bone, and the smaller wings of the sphenoid bone decreased. Posterior inclination of the pterygoid process increased. Mean volume of the sphenoidal sinus increased postoperatively compared with the preoperative volume. Apparent changes in the cranial base after TSDO are primarily in the middle cranial fossa, manifesting as an increase in the sphenoid bone body length, expansion of the sphenoidal sinus volume, growth of the pterygoid process forward and downward, a decrease in the angle of both the greater and smaller wings of the sphenoid bone, and an increase in the posterior inclination of the pterygoid process.

Influence of marginal incision and Le Fort I osteotomy on periodontal tissues: a prospective longitudinal study

The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate whether the surgical protocol involving marginal incision and Le Fort I osteotomy affects the periodontal outcome. Twenty-nine patients requiring surgical correction of maxillary dysgnathia were selected for this study. Periodontal conditions of maxillary anterior teeth were assessed prior to the surgery (T₀), one month (T₁), and 6 months (T₂) after the surgical procedure. Interdental papillae loss, periodontal parameters and aesthetic outcomes in the anterior zone were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed with Friedman´s test and within ANOVA (p ≤ 0.05) followed by post-hoc tests. Papilla height decreased from T₀ to T₁ (p = 0.003), followed by an increase from T₁ to T₂ (p = 0.040). PPD (T₀ = 1.72 ± 0.46; T₂ = 2.13 ± 0.43) and CAL (T₀ = 1.24 ± 0.55; T₂ = 1.99 ± 0.70) increased after 6 months. There were statistically significant differences in aesthetic score among T₀, T₁ and T₂. Periodontal changes after orthognathic surgery were within acceptable biological levels. Although a change in papillae height was reported after the surgery, initial values were recovered after 6 months. Surgical incision design might improve the outcome of Le-Fort I osteotomy. Anterior aesthetic zone may benefit from a marginal incision design, as it respects vascularization principle and may ensure a wound healing without complications.

What Is the Effect of Maxillary Impaction Orthognathic Surgery on Voice Characteristics? A Quasi-Experimental Study

Background

Regarding the impact of orthognathic surgery on the airway and voice, this study was carried out to investigate the effects of maxillary impaction surgery on patients' voices through acoustic analysis and articulation assessment.

Methods

This quasi-experimental, before-and-after, double-blind study aimed at examining the effects of maxillary impaction surgery on the voice of orthognathic surgery patients. Before the surgery, a speech therapist conducted acoustic analysis, which included fundament frequency (F0), Jitter, Shimmer, and the harmonic-to-noise ratio (HNR), as well as first, second, and third formants (F1, F2, and F3). The patient's age, sex, degree of maxillary deformity, and impaction were documented in a checklist. Voice analysis was repeated during follow-up appointments at one and six months after the surgery in a blinded manner. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 23, and the significance level was set at 0.05.

Results

Twenty two patients (18 females, 4 males) were examined, with ages ranging from 18 to 40 years and an average age of 25.54 years. F2, F3, HNR, and Shimmer demonstrated a significant increase over the investigation period compared to the initial phase of the study (P <0.001 for each). Conversely, the Jitter variable exhibited a significant decrease during the follow-up assessments in comparison to the initial phase of the study (P< 0.001).

Conclusion

Following maxillary impaction surgery, improvements in voice quality were observed compared to the preoperative condition. However, further studies with larger samples are needed to confirm the relevancy.

Transmucosal pterygomaxillary disjunction using a piezoelectric device, in the context of the minimally invasive Le Fort I osteotomy protocol

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy and clinical implications of pterygomaxillary junction (PMJ) disjunction with a transmucosal PMJ osteotomy using a piezoelectric hand-piece device, in the context of Le Fort I osteotomy, by evaluating the level of PMJ disarticulation and the need for bone trimming around the pedicle. An ambidirectional 1-month follow-up cohort study was designed involving consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive maxillary Le Fort I osteotomy through the twist technique. Two cohorts were defined according to whether or not the transmucosal PMJ osteotomy was performed. The site of PMJ disjunction was analysed radiographically. A total of 114 patients were included in the study, 57 in each group. The overall accuracy of the PMJ disjunction path was higher in the test group (43.9%) than in the control group (15.8%). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified the need for bone trimming (odds ratio 0.02; P < 0.001) and removal of the upper third molar (odds ratio 0.17; P < 0.001) as relevant factors. In conclusion, compared with the originally described twist technique, combination of the latter with the PMJ osteotomy increased its accuracy at the level of the PMJ. As a result, there is a decrease in resistance during down-fracture and decrease in the need for bone trimming around the pedicle, with preservation of the minimally invasive concept.

Is Preemptive Oral Tizanidine Effective on Postoperative Pain Intensity after Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery? A Triple-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background:

We aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative administration of oral tizanidine on postoperative pain intensity after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.

Methods:

All healthy skeletal class III patients who were candidates for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were enrolled in this triple-blind randomized clinical trial. The study was carried out in the Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Qaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran; from January 2021 to November 2021. The consecutive patients were randomly divided into tizanidine and placebo groups. One hour prior to anesthesia induction, the tizanidine group received 4 mg Tizanidine dissolved in 10 ml apple juice, whereas the placebo group received an identical glass of plain apple juice. All operations were performed by the same surgical team, under the same general anesthesia protocol. Postoperative pain was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. For statistical analysis; the significance level was set at 0.05 using SPSS 23.

Results:

A total of 60 consecutive patients, consisting of 36 females (60%) and 24 males (40%) with an average age of 25.4 ± 6.0 were recruited. An increasing trend was noticed in the amount of perceived postoperative pain from the 3^rd till 12^th hour, and then decreased afterward. Nevertheless, the average amount of pain was significantly lower in the tizanidine compared to the placebo group, in all the evaluated time intervals (P<0.001). Moreover, there was a significantly higher requirement for postoperative opioid analgesics in the placebo compared to the tizanidine group (P=0.011).

Conclusion:

The addition of oral tizanidine was effective in reducing postoperative pain following bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Further studies are necessary for more relevancy.

Risk Factors for Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation and Delayed Extubation Following Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Bimaxillary orthognathic surgery bears the risk of severe postoperative airway complications. There are no clear recommendations for immediate postoperative follow-up and monitoring. Objective: to identify potential risk factors for prolonged mechanical ventilation and delayed extubation in patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Methods: The data of all consecutive patients undergoing bimaxillary surgery between May 2012 and October 2019 were analyzed in a single-center retrospective cohort study. The clinical data were evaluated regarding baseline characteristics and potential factors linked with delayed extubation. Results: A total of 195 patients were included; 54.9% were female, and the median age was 23 years (IQR 5). The median body mass index was 23.1 (IQR 8). Nine patients (4.6%) were of American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System III or higher. The median duration of mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit was 280 min (IQR, 526 min). Multivariable analysis revealed that premedication with benzodiazepines (odds ratio (OR) 2.60, 95% confidence interval (0.99; 6.81)), the male sex (OR 2.43, 95% confidence interval (1.10; 5.36)), and the duration of surgery (OR 1.54, 95% confidence interval (1.07; 2.23)) were associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation. By contrast, total intravenous anesthesia was associated with shorter ventilation time (OR 0.19, 95% confidence interval (0.09; 0.43)). Conclusion: premedication with benzodiazepines, the male sex, and the duration of surgery might be considered to be independent risk factors for delayed extubation in patients undergoing bimaxillary surgery.

Epistaxis After Orthognathic Surgery: Literature Review and Three Case Studies

Study Design

This is a literature review with 3 case studies.

Objective

Intraoperative and postoperative bleeding are the most common complications of orthognathic surgery and have the potential to become life-threatening. The rarity of severe postoperative epistaxis has resulted in limited characterization of these cases in the literature. The purpose of this study is to 1) differentiate various presentations of epistaxis following orthognathic surgery in the literature, 2) identify management approaches, and 3) to synthesize a treatment algorithm to guide future management of postoperative epistaxis.

Methods

A literature search of PubMed was conducted and 28 cases from 17 studies were assessed.

Results

Bleeding within the first week may indicate isolated epistaxis, often resolved with local tamponade. Half of cases were attributed to pseudoaneurysm rupture (n = 14), with epistaxis onset ranging from postoperative day 6 to week 9. Angiography was used in most cases (n = 17), often as the primary imaging modality (n = 11). Nasal endoscopy is a less invasive and effective alternative to angiography with embolization. Proximal vessel ligation was used in 3 cases but is not preferred because collaterals may reconstitute flow through the defect and cause rebleeding. Repeat maxillary down-fracture with surgical exploration was described in 4 cases.

Conclusions

As outlined in our management algorithm, nasal packing and tamponade should be followed by either local electrocautery or vascular imaging. Angiography with embolization is the preferred approach to diagnosis and management, whereas surgical intervention is reserved for cases of embolization failure or unavailability.

Epistaxis in dental and maxillofacial practice: a comprehensive review

The lifetime incidence of epistaxis in dental and maxillofacial practice has been reported to be as high as 60% and can be caused by dental implant placement, Le Fort I osteotomy, intranasal supernumerary tooth, odontogenic tumors, blood disorders and maxillofacial trauma. Most epistaxis cases are minor and easily managed with direct compression on the nares for 10 minutes. For more significant or recurrent epistaxis, other techniques might include electrocautery, anterior or posterior nasal packing, or Foley catheter balloon. For patients with refractory epistaxis, cauterization of the sphenopalatine artery under endonasal endoscopy or embolization of the internal maxillary artery should be performed. Epistaxis control is required in patients diagnosed with inherited or acquired bleeding disorders or with drug-induced coagulopathies during dental procedures. In these cases, hemostatic system adjustment and hemostasis achieved by local and adjunctive methods are required. Dentists and maxillofacial surgeons must be aware that the nasal cavity is a potential source of perioperative hemorrhage. Depending on the invasiveness of the dental intervention, preoperative involvement of the hematologist and cardiologist is usually necessary to reverse anticoagulation or to cease anticoagulant therapy.

A clinico-statistical study of factors associated with intraoperative bleeding in orthognathic surgery

Background

Excessive bleeding is a major intraoperative risk associated with orthognathic surgery. This study aimed to investigate the factors involved in massive bleeding during orthognathic surgeries so that safe surgeries can be performed. Patients (n=213) diagnosed with jaw deformities and treated with bimaxillary orthognathic surgery (Le Fort I osteotomy and bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy) in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Suidobashi Hospital, Tokyo Dental College between January 2014 and December 2016 were included. Using the patients’ medical and operative records, the number of cases according to sex, age at the time of surgery, body mass index (BMI), circulating blood volume, diagnosis of maxillary deformity, direction of maxillary movement, operative duration, incidence of bad split, injury of nasal mucosa, and blood type were analyzed.

Results

The results revealed that BMI, circulating blood volume, nasal mucosal injury, and operative time were associated with the risk of intraoperative massive bleeding in orthognathic surgeries. Chi-square tests and binomial logistic regression analyses showed significant differences in BMI, circulating blood volume, direction of maxillary movement, operative duration, and injury to the nasal mucosa. Operative duration emerged as the most important risk factor. Furthermore, a >4-mm upward migration of the posterior nasal spine predicted the risk of massive bleeding in orthognathic surgery.

Conclusions

The upward movement of the maxilla should be recognized during the preoperative planning stage as a risk factor for intraoperative bleeding, and avoiding damage to the nasal mucosa should be considered a requirement for surgeons to prevent massive bleeding during surgery.

Delayed Epistaxis which Was Developed after Orthognathic Surgery with Le Fort I Osteotomy and Managed by Endoscopic Cauterization

A case of delayed epistaxis from the mucosa behind the right side of the inferior nasal mucosa 11 days after orthognathic surgery by Le Fort I osteotomy is presented. The patient was a 31-year-old man who underwent orthognathic surgery under general anesthesia. No abnormal findings were found during or after the operation. The patient was discharged from the hospital 10 days postoperatively. However, bleeding from the right nasal cavity occurred suddenly on the night after discharge, and he presented to our hospital again. The epistaxis was stopped once by nasal packing containing 0.001% epinephrine and systemic infusion of carbazochrome sulfonic acid and tranexamic acid. However, when the nasal packing was removed the next day, right nasal epistaxis was observed again. Curvature of the nasal septum and thickening of the inferior turbinate mucosa were seen on inspection; although, no active bleeding point was identified. Decreased nasal mucosa thickening and bleeding were observed after nasal packing containing 0.02% epinephrine. When the inside of the nasal cavity was observed endoscopically, an approximately 2 mm laceration was found in the mucosa behind the side wall of the right inferior nasal mucosa, and bleeding from the same part was confirmed. After endoscopic cauterization for hemostasis of the nasal mucosa, no rebleeding was observed. Although delayed epistaxis after Le Fort I osteotomy are often performed CT angiography to confirm the bleeding site, endoscopic cauterization would be primarily useful because of less invasiveness.

A Novel Device for Blood Drainage after Le Fort I Osteotomy: Maxillary Sinus Ventilation Drainage (MSVD)

The purpose of this study is to present a novel maxillary sinus ventilation drainage (MSVD) device which facilitates blood drainage and nasal breathing after Le Fort I osteotomy. One hundred patients who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery from January 2016 to June 2016 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Chung-Ang University Hospital were retrospectively selected and divided into two groups. MSVD was applied in 50 patients, who were allocated to the MSVD group, while the remaining 50 patients, in whom MSVD was not applied, were allocated to the non-MSVD group. All patients underwent a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan before and 2 days after surgery. CBCT was used to analyze middle meatus patency and the percentage of hematoma volume per entire maxillary sinus volume. Statistical comparisons between the two groups were performed using the Chi-squared and Mann–Whitney U tests to investigate the clinical effectiveness of MSVD. The MSVD group showed significantly higher maintenance ratio of the middle meatus patency and a higher percentage of maxillary sinus air volume (p < 0.05) than the non-MSVD group. MSVD facilitated nasal breathing after Le Fort I osteotomy by reducing hematoma inside the maxillary sinus and promoting middle meatal patency.

Evaluation of Related Factors of Maxillary Sinusitis After Le Fort I Osteotomy Based on Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

ABSTRACT

Maxillary sinusitis is 1 of the postoperative complications of the Le Fort I osteotomy, this study investigated the related factors of maxillary sinusitis after Le Fort I osteotomy. A total of 23 cases, 92 controls, and 11 related factors were included in this case-control study with a 1:4 case-control ratio. The risk factors for maxillary sinusitis after Le Fort I were examined by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator multivariate conditional logistic regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator multivariate linear regression. The patency of maxillary sinus ostium at 6 months after surgery was significantly associated with maxillary sinusitis after Le Fort I osteotomy. Compared with the obstructed maxillary sinus ostium, the percentage of the volume of the healthy air cavity in the complete sinus cavity increased 70.7% when the maxillary sinus ostium was unobstructed, and 95% confidence interval was 0.610 to 0.805. Similarly, when the maxillary sinus ostium was wide, the percentage increased 6.0% compared with the narrow 1, and 95% confidence interval was 0.013 to 0.107. This study indicated that the patency of maxillary sinus ostium has an important impact on maxillary sinusitis after Le Fort I osteotomy. Close attention should be paid to maintain the maxillary sinus ostium and the drainage of maxillary sinuses unobstructed in a clinical setting.

Evaluating Morphology of the Pterygomaxillary Junction and Its Association With the Orbit in Different Facial Skeletal Relationships

PURPOSE

The etiology for blindness after Le Fort I osteotomy is poorly understood. The authors propose that a study of the morphology and anatomical relationship of the pterygomaxillary junction to orbital vital structures may be crucial for understanding the possible etiology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective observational study involved analysis of data procured from computed tomography scans of individuals who were categorized into 4 groups based on their skeletal characteristics: skeletal Class I, II, and III and cleft lip palate (CLP). The outcome variables included i) the height, width, and thickness of the pterygomaxillary junction (PTMJ) which represent its morphology and ii) distance of the PTMJ to the superior orbital fissure and optic canal, to demonstrate its proximity to orbital vital structures. Primary outcome measures were to i) compare variance of the outcome variables across groups, ii) determine association between PTMJ morphology and its proximity to the orbit, and iii) determine association between skeletal morphology and the outcome variables. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to study variance and association.

RESULTS

Forty patients (80 sides) were divided into 4 groups. The CLP group demonstrated maximum height and thickness of the PTMJ, whereas the Class II group demonstrated the minimum (P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). The CLP group demonstrated the closest proximity of the PTMJ to orbital vital structures (P < .001), with Class II being the farthest (P < .001). There was a weak positive correlation between the PTMJ height and its thickness and width, whereas a moderate negative correlation was seen between the PTMJ height and its distance from the optic canal and superior orbital fissures (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Morphology of the PTMJ varies with facial skeletal relationship and also influences the relationship of the PTMJ with the orbital vital structures. This may be critical in understanding the pathophysiology of blindness after Le Fort I osteotomies.

Effect of maxillary surgical movement on nasal cavity and maxillary sinus dimensions and function after Le Fort I osteotomy

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of different maxillary movements performed in Le Fort I surgery on the anatomy of the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus, occurrence of rhinosinusitis, and nasal airflow. Patients were divided into three groups: group I underwent pure advancement, group II underwent advancement with yaw rotation, and group III underwent advancement with impaction movements. All evaluations were performed using pre- and postoperative computed tomography images and surveys. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled. The mean pre- and postoperative nasal air volumes in group I were 22.74 ± 6.32 cm³ and 25.17 ± 6.19 cm³, respectively, showing a significant increase (P = 0.041). The mean pre- and postoperative maxillary sinus air volumes were 33.94 ± 13.72 cm³ and 26.28 ± 14.12 cm³ in group II and 35.29 ± 9.58 cm³ and 28.65 ± 8.42 cm³ in group III, respectively, showing significant reductions (P = 0.028 and P = 0.007, respectively). For all movements, the occurrence of septum deviation and nasal airflow impairment was not statistically significant. Pure maxillary advancement movement enhanced nasal cavity air volume. The yaw rotation movement significantly increased quantitative clinical rhinosinusitis symptoms. The risk of airflow impairment following Le Fort I surgery is low.

Complications on maxilar impaction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Maxillary impactions are seen as an orthognathic surgical movement that increases the number of complications. The aim of this paper is to research literature on this topic, with special attention to avoiding of complications.

METHODS

A systematic review was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. The PROSPERO registration has been performed. A risk of bias assessment was carried out with RevMan and graphics were created. A total of 20 articles were included in this systematic review.

RESULTS

Some interesting and conclusive facts about maxillary impactions. Relapses are not common due to the higher bone contact. Bleeding is a common complication due to the location of palatal artery. Aesthetic and functional complications can arise, especially in the nasal region. Bimaxillary orthognathic surgeries has a higher incidence of complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Today it is not possible to confirm that maxillary impactions alone are responsible for a higher incidence of complications due to the complexity of the three-dimensional movements. Some surgical steps could be safer and cause fewer complications.

Orthognathic Surgery-LeFort I Osteotomy

Orthognathic surgery is a complex type of facial surgery that can have a profound impact on a patient's occlusal function and facial aesthetics. Close collaboration between the maxillofacial surgeon and an orthodontist is required, and the surgical team must have a strong foundation in facial analysis and firm understanding of the maxillofacial skeleton to achieve surgical success. Herein, we review the maxillary LeFort I osteotomy as it pertains to orthognathic surgery, with particular attention to the indications, contraindications, preoperative assessment, surgical technique, and possible complications encountered.

Surgical procedures for correcting vertical maxillary excess: A review

INTRODUCTION

Vertical maxillary excess, a common orthodontic problem that leads to long faces and open bites, can be repositioned with a Le Fort I osteotomy. However, the Le Fort I osteotomy poses the risk of a variety of complications including descending palatine artery (DPA) injury. Although several Le Fort I osteotomy modifications were reported to avoid complications associated with this osteotomy, only a few of such studies were conducted in Japan, and details remain scarce.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a literature review regarding modifications of Le Fort I osteotomies, including Le Fort I with a horseshoe osteotomy, modified horseshoe osteotomy, unilateral horseshoe osteotomy, pyramidal osteotomy, and U-shaped osteotomy. We identified eight relevant studies conducted in Japan; one study did not provide the number of patients examined. The 77 patients (seven studies) with vertical maxillary excess who underwent orthognathic surgery were ≥17 years old.

DISCUSSION

There were no severe complications after the modified Le Fort I osteotomies. The postoperative maxillary changes obtained by the conventional horseshoe, modified horseshoe, unilateral type of horseshoe, pyramidal, and U-shaped osteotomies were nearly repositioned to the planned position and remained stable for ≥12 months post-surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our review indicates that preserving the DPA can lower the incidence of intra- and post-operative complications. Each modification of the Le Fort I osteotomy (i.e., conventional horseshoe, modified horseshoe, unilateral horseshoe, pyramidal, and U-shaped osteotomy) has its respective advantages and indications.

Power chains as an alternative to steel-wire ligatures in temporary maxillomandibular fixation: a pilot study

The aim of this study was to compare two techniques for temporary intraoperative maxillomandibular fixation (TIO-MMF) during orthognathic surgery: steel-wire ligatures versus power chains. Patients undergoing orthognathic surgery between October 2019 and March 2020 were included in a prospective cross-sectional study conducted in three participating hospitals. Data were collected using a standardized measurement form. A total of 44 patients were included, in whom TIO-MMF was applied 79 times. A statistically significant difference in intraoperative loss of stability of the segment relationship was found between steel-wire ligatures (11.4%) and power chains (0%). The mean application time of TIO-MMF differed significantly between steel-wire ligatures (99 seconds) and power chains (157 seconds) (P < 0.001). There was no statistical difference in occurrence of adverse events between the two techniques. This study found that the application of TIO-MMF with power chains is more stable compared to steel-wire ligatures. Steel-wire ligatures were significantly faster to apply, although the absolute difference (less than 1 minute) was small. Other possible advantages of the proposed technique are discussed. The results of this study suggest that power chains for the application of TIO-MMF in orthognathic surgery are a valuable alternative to steel-wire ligatures.

Achieving the Optimal Aesthetic Benefit While Correcting Midface Deficiency: Utilizing A High Winged Le Fort I in Cleft and Craniofacial Patients

ABSTRACT

Craniofacial anomalies are congenital disorders that affect the cranium and facial bones, with cleft lip and palate being the most common. These anomalies are often associated with abnormal development of pharyngeal arches and can result in the development of class III malocclusion and severe maxillary retrusion. Current treatment includes orthodontic decompensation and Le Fort I osteotomy to correct the maxillomandibular relationship. However, the traditional Le Fort I (LFI) advancement does not fully address the lack of skeletal volume in the midface. The high winged Le Fort I osteotomy (HWLFI) is an excellent surgical option for simultaneous correction of the midface deficiency and malocclusion while restoring optimal esthetic convexity. A retrospective chart review was conducted to include all cleft and craniofacial patients who underwent HWLFI advancement from 2002 to 2018. Patients had a minimum of 12 months of follow-up. Patient data and complications were reviewed. Standardized facial photographs were analyzed for esthetic improvement, occlusion, and beneficial salutary effects on the midface. Forty-three patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age at surgery was 18.9 years. The mean follow-up was 32 months. Early complications included infection (9.3%) and temporary nerve paresthesia (2.3%). Late complications included infection (6.5%), wound dehiscence (4.3%), and painful hardware (2.3%). One patient (2.3 percent) had clinically significant relapse that required surgery. Postoperatively, patients demonstrated excellent midface projection and correction of the skeletal malocclusion. The HWLFI advancement significantly improves both the malocclusion and esthetic concerns of cleft and craniofacial patients by reestablishing maximal midfacial support. Important advantages of the HWLFI are avoidance of alloplastic implant use and extensive and potentially unstable surgical procedures that increase orbital volume.

Peri- and postoperative complications in Le Fort I osteotomies

This retrospective study was performed to report the peri- and postoperative complications encountered by patients who underwent Le Fort I osteotomy, as well as predictor variables affecting the risk of complications. Patients who underwent only Le Fort I osteotomy were included in the study. Information on peri- and postoperative complications were collected from the patient data records. The effects of certain predictor variables on complication rates were also studied. Twenty-four per cent of the patients suffered from complications, six (6.1%) of whom were reoperated. Most of the complications were minor and transient. Compared with one-piece osteotomy, segmental osteotomy was a significant risk factor predisposing patients to postoperative complications (p = 0.04619). Additionally, the use of patient-specific implants seemed to increase the risk of both perioperative and postoperative complications (p = 0.0248). Currently, the conventional plate fixation method is the primary method in Le Fort I osteotomies. Careful patient selection, surgical planning, and selection of surgical technique seem to be the most important factors in reducing the complication risk. Special attention should be paid with segmental osteotomy surgery.

Vascular Complications in Le Fort I Osteotomy: Incidence, Reasons, and Management of the Intraoperative Hemorrhage

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, types, and reasons for the intraoperative hemorrhage during Le Fort I osteotomy.

METHODS

The study sample was composed of the population of the patients who underwent orthognathic surgery from April 2011 to February 2017. The vascular complications of the patients who underwent Le Fort I osteotomy during the surgery were identified. Type of the bleeding, suspected vessel, amount of the intraoperative blood loss, cause, and management of the bleeding were specified and investigated. Descriptive statistics were computed for each study variable.

RESULTS

A total of 200 patients underwent Le Fort I osteotomy. The sample's mean age was 22.4 ± 5.8 and 55.5% of patients were female. The intraoperative vascular complication was seen in only 10 (5%) samples. The suspected source of the hemorrhage was the descending palatine artery (DPA) in 8 (4%) cases, while the pterygoid venous plexus in the other 2 (1%) cases. The cause of the bleeding was suspected down-fracture in 8 cases, while pterygomaxillary junction (PMJ) separation in the other 2 cases. DPA was ligated with ligation clips and cauterized in arterial injury cases. The hemorrhage was taken under control using a hemostatic matrix with thrombin (Surgiflo, Ethicon, USA) in the venous bleeding cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The down-fracture of the maxilla was found to be more related to the occurrence of vascular complications. Severe bleeding was managed by the use of the hemostatic matrix with thrombin and this hemostatic agent can be used to control this type bleedings in orthognathic surgery.

Evaluation of Lefort I Osteotomy Line and Pterygomaxillary Junction Region in Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the Le Fort I osteotomy line and pterygomaxillary junction via cone-beam computed tomography in individuals with cleft lip and palate (CLP).

DESIGN

Retrospective study. Patients and Methods: The study included individuals older than 16 years with CLP, who were scheduled for repositioning of the maxilla by Le Fort I osteotomy, and those with class III malocclusion with maxillary hypoplasia, who were scheduled for Le Fort I osteotomy. The measurements made in the area of the cleft of individuals with CLP were compared with both the side with no cleft and those with class III malocclusion with maxillary hypoplasia. A total of 11 measurements were made on the axial section parallel to the Frankfurt Horizontal plane, corresponding to the lower 1/5 of the distance between the infraorbital foramen and the anterior nasal spine.

RESULTS

There were significant differences both in the comparisons made between the individuals with CLP and those without CLP in terms of the canal-anterior alveolar crest (G) and sinus-anterior alveolar crest (L) measurements (P < .05). The mean measurement values showed that the measurement results were higher in individuals with CLP in general.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we believe that there might be difficulties both in osteotomy and down fracture stages during Le Fort I osteotomies performed in individuals with CLP.

Intraoperative blood loss and surgical time according to the direction of maxillary movement

Background

Excessive bleeding is one of the most severe complications of orthognathic surgery (OGS). This study investigated the associations of intraoperative blood loss and surgical time with the direction of maxillary movement.

Methods

This retrospective study involved patients who underwent OGS from October 2017 to February 2020. They were classified based on whether maxillary setback was performed into groups A1 and B1, respectively. Relative blood loss (RBL, %) was used as an indicator to compare intraoperative blood loss between the two groups. The surgical time of the two groups was also measured. Subsequently, the patients were reclassified based on whether posterior impaction of the maxilla was performed into groups A2 and B2, respectively. RBL and surgical time were measured in the two groups. Simple linear and multiple regression analyses were performed. P-values <0.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results

Eighteen patients were included. The RBL and surgical time for the groups were: A1, 13.15%±5.99% and 194.37±42.04 minutes; B1, 12.41%±1.89% and 196.50±46.07 minutes; A2, 13.94%±3.82% and 201.00±39.70 minutes; and B2, 9.61%±3.27% and 188.84±38.63 minutes, respectively. Only RBL showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups (A2 and B2, P=0.04).

Conclusions

Unlike maxillary setback, posterior impaction of the maxilla showed a significant association with RBL during surgery. When performing posterior impaction of the maxilla, clinicians need to pay particular attention to surgery and postoperative care.

Does angulation of osteotome during pterygomaxillary dysjunction for a Le Fort I osteotomy influence stress transmission to the orbit? A finite element simulation in normal and cleft maxillae

Pterygomaxillary (PTM) dysjunction is a technique-sensitive step in Le Fort I osteotomy. Various studies implicate improper osteotomy techniques and anatomical variations of the midface in ophthalmic/orbital complications. The aim of this study was to assess the stress distribution and its transmission to the orbit during PTM dysjunction while using different angulations of the osteotome. The study involved the generation of two virtual models from the computed tomographic images of a non-cleft and cleft patient. Nonlinear, three-dimensional finite element analysis (3D-FEA) of the models was performed for mapping the equivalent stress (in megapascals [MPa]) and maximum principal stress (in MPa) at the PTM junction, optic canal, and superior orbital fissures. The results of our study showed that there was no significant change in the transmission of stress to the bony orbit in a normal maxilla, with variations in the angulation of the osteotome. However, the equivalent stress generated for the cleft maxilla showed an increase that could potentiate indirect globe injury. The study shows that a judicious technique for PTM dysjunction and a cautious approach in cleft maxillae could reduce incidence of ophthalmic complications in clinical practice.

Postoperative complications after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery: A retrospective study with focus on postoperative ventilation strategies and posterior airway space (PAS)

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of extubation time on postoperative complications in patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. We therefore retrospectively compared the effect of early extubating (EE) in the operating room versus delayed extubating (LE) on the intensive care unit (ICU) regarding postoperative complications and length of ICU/hospital stay (LOICUS/LOHS). Furthermore, we analyzed the influence of the PAS change on postoperative complications.

METHODS

The clinical data of 117 patients were retrospective analyzed regarding postoperative complications using Clavian-Dindo Classification. Volumetric calculations of the pre- and postoperative PAS were conducted using ITK-SNAP software. The Fisher's exact test was performed to evaluate the significance of differences between categorical variables. Continuous variables were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-Test or the Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance. Regression analysis was used estimating predictors for postoperative complications.

RESULTS

EE led to significant shortening of LOICUS (p < 0.001) and LOHS (p = 0.023). In total, we recorded 38 complications (minor n = 30; major n = 8) within the hospital stay. Complication rates were without significant differences with respect to the postoperative ventilation strategy. Large changes in PAS volume led to an increase in the major complication rates (p = 0.031). Increase or decrease of PAS was independent from postoperative complication rates (p = 1.000). Higher body mass index (p = 0.04) and a higher ASA PS score (p = 0.016) were associated with increased major complication rates.

CONCLUSION

Early extubation after surgery is a safe procedure and is associated with a reduced LOICUS and LOHS. Complications seem to occur more frequently in marked changes of the PAS and should be considered in perioperative risk stratification.