OBJECTIVE: To assess sensory function of inferior alveolar nerve in monkeys with mandibular distraction osteogenesis by use of trigeminal somatosensory evoked potential (TSEP). METHOD: Seven young monkeys, 4 approximately 6 kg, were undergone a 13.5 mm bilateral or right-side mandibular lengthening with mandibular angle osteotomy and intraoral bone-born appliance. The inferior alveolar nerve function was assessed with TSEP before surgery, at the completion of distraction, and after four weeks of fixation. RESULTS: No significant differences in latencies and amplitudes of TSEP between the left and right inferior alveolar nerves before surgery. At the completion of distraction, latencies of TSEP showed significant elongation (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) and amplitudes also significantly decreased (P < 0.001). After four weeks of fixation, various degrees of TSEP recovery were identified. The latencies and the amplitude were slightly improved. CONCLUSIONS: Mandibular distraction osteogenesis affects sensory function of inferior alveolar nerves in studied monkeys evaluated with SEP, but recovery is observed four weeks after surgery.
OBJECTIVE: To assess sensory function of inferior alveolar nerve in monkeys with mandibular distraction osteogenesis by use of trigeminal somatosensory evoked potential (TSEP). METHOD: Seven young monkeys, 4 approximately 6 kg, were undergone a 13.5 mm bilateral or right-side mandibular lengthening with mandibular angle osteotomy and intraoral bone-born appliance. The inferior alveolar nerve function was assessed with TSEP before surgery, at the completion of distraction, and after four weeks of fixation. RESULTS: No significant differences in latencies and amplitudes of TSEP between the left and right inferior alveolar nerves before surgery. At the completion of distraction, latencies of TSEP showed significant elongation (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) and amplitudes also significantly decreased (P < 0.001). After four weeks of fixation, various degrees of TSEP recovery were identified. The latencies and the amplitude were slightly improved. CONCLUSIONS: Mandibular distraction osteogenesis affects sensory function of inferior alveolar nerves in studied monkeys evaluated with SEP, but recovery is observed four weeks after surgery.