What is a sagittal split osteotomy?
A sagittal split osteotomy is an operation to change the position of your lower jaw so your teeth can be aligned. There is a limit to how far your orthodontist can use orthodontics (braces) to move your teeth. Sometimes is not possible to complete the alignment of your teeth without improving the position of your lower jaw.
What are the benefits of surgery?
Your orthodontist should be able to align your teeth so they bite together in the best way for long-term stability. The appearance of your face should also improve.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
Your orthodontist can sometimes just use braces to straighten your teeth, but it is unlikely that your teeth will bite together properly. You will usually need a permanent wire across the back of your teeth or to wear a splint at night for the rest of your life to keep your teeth in place.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes about an hour.
Your surgeon will make cuts inside your mouth and may need to make small cuts on your cheeks. They will use instruments to separate your lower jaw (see figure 1). Your surgeon will move your jaw and fix it in the right position using plates and screws.
What complications can happen?
1 General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Bruising and swelling of your jaw and mouth
- Infection of the surgical site (wound)
- Blood clots
2 Specific complications of this operation
- Numbness of your lower lip
- The jaw not separating as planned
- Not being able to open your mouth fully (trismus) and jaw stiffness
- Infection of the plates and screws
- Numbness in one or both sides of the tongue
How soon will I recover?
You should be able to go home after one to three days.
Most swelling and bruising will usually have settled after the third week.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
Eat only soft foods for four to six weeks, gradually moving onto solid food only when you can chew comfortably.
You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks, depending on your type of work.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Andrew Sidebottom FDSRCS FRCS
Illustrations: Medical Illustration Copyright © 2012 Nucleus Medical Art. All rights reserved. www.nucleusinc.com
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EIDO Healthcare Ltd
Last updated:
June 2015
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