Mandibular osteotomy in the surgical approach to the oral cavity.

The improved stability that results from the combination of K-wire transfixion of a mandibular osteotomy with direct wiring has made it possible to use a straight, as opposed to a stepped, bone cut and to avoid the invariable need for dental extractions. It has also made possible an alternative osteotomy site, immediately anterior to the mental foramen. The use of this site allows mandibular swing to take place after division only of mucous membrane and mylohyoid. It is best combined with a modified lip-splitting incision which has been found to improve ultimate cosmesis.