Orthognathic surgery for patients with maxillofacial deformities.

Orthognathic surgery is performed to alter the shape of the jaws to improve dental occlusion stability, improve temporomandibular joint function, open the oropharyngeal airway, and improve the patient's facial proportions. Surgery must be coordinated with orthodontic treatment. The surgeon develops a plan based on the patient's measurements and performs the planned procedure on plaster models of the patient's jaw and teeth to obtain the proper jaw position. Surgical techniques include LeFort procedures and distraction osteogenesis. Possible complications of orthognathic procedures include airway compromise, numbness, and nonunion or malunion of the bones. Postoperative instructions include an emphasis on the need for the patient to consume a blended diet for six weeks after surgery. Copyright (c) 2010 AORN, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.