Modified channel retractor for the sagittal split ramus osteotomy: a technical note.

The authors describe a modification of the commonly used inferior border channel retractor for the sagittal split osteotomy of the mandible. We modified this instrument by hollowing out the shank and working surface allowing improved access during the vertical cut through the inferior border of the mandible. Advantages of this modification over the original design include less dulling of the cutting instrument, less damage to the channel retractor, less debris in the surgical wound, and most importantly, less damage to the surrounding soft tissue. In our experience with this instrument, there have been no incidences of excessive blood loss requiring transfusion, avascular necrosis, bony nonunion or permanent nerve injury. We believe this modification improves manouverability during orthognathic surgery thereby decreasing morbidity and operating time, thereby making a successful outcome more likely.