Neurosensory disturbance after sagittal split and intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy: as reported in questionnaires and patients' records.

This retrospective study aimed at evaluating the long-term incidence of neurosensory disturbance (NSD) after sagittal split osteotomy (SSO) and intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO). Furthermore, a comparison was made between the results obtained by questionnaires and information in the patient records in the evaluation of nerve function. Finally, the degree of discomfort caused by the NSD was evaluated. One hundred and twenty-nine patients, who underwent IVRO (79 patients) and SSO (50 patients), were included. Questionnaires were mailed to the patients at least one year after the operation. The records of all patients, who returned the questionnaires, were reviewed. The results of NSD obtained by questionnaires and records differed indicating a disagreement between the judgement of the surgeon and the patient's opinion. Long lasting NSD was underestimated by the surgeon as compared to the patient's subjective symptom. Long lasting NSD was reported in 7.5% (questionnaire), 3.8% (record) after IVRO and in 11.6% (questionnaire) and 8.1% (record) after SSO.