Stability of orthognathic surgery: a review of rigid fixation.

The use of rigid fixation with orthognathic surgery was greeted by both excitement and healthy concern when it began to find its way into the literature approximately 10 years ago. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature and make comments based on the experience of the senior author on whether one of the early premises was true. Has rigid fixation improved stability with orthognathic surgery? The authors chose to examine mandibular advancements treated with a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy and maxillary osteotomies treated with a Le Fort I osteotomy. When compared to wire osteosynthesis, rigid fixation has improved stability; however, the individual move associated with the osteotomy must be considered. In some cases, auxiliary techniques should be used to ensure stability. Condylar resorption with mandibular advancement continues to be an area of concern.