Long-term stability of anterior segmental maxillary osteotomy

The long-term stability of anterior segmental maxillary osteotomy was evaluated in 11 patients. Both the Wunderer and down-fracture procedures were used. The patients were examined periodically until 18 months after surgery. Operative and postoperative cephalograms were compared; a more reliable method was utilized to assess the displacement of the osteotomy segment. Linear and angular measurements were used for evaluation of relapse. No major complications were recorded, and no correlation was found between the magnitude of segment repositioning and degree of relapse. Positional changes at the end of the study, though statistically significant, were clinically acceptable and subjectively undetectable. Results emphasized the merits and potential of the surgical osteotomy. Satisfactory correction of anterior maxillary excess was achieved, with absolute improvement in esthetics and occlusion.