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Masticatory function in retrognathic patients, before and after mandibular advancement surgery
Willem van den Braber1, Hilbert van der Glas, Andries van der Bilt
1Department of Head and Neck, Oral Physiology Group, University Medical Center Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Summary
Orthognathic surgery for mandibular retrognathia did not improve chewing function or muscle strength. Patients with this condition exhibit impaired masticatory system function compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Dentofacial surgery
- Masticatory function analysis
- Electromyography
Background:
- Mandibular retrognathia is a dentofacial deformity.
- Surgical correction is a viable treatment option.
- Assessing the impact on masticatory function is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate orthognathic surgery's influence on masticatory function in retrognathic patients.
- Compare post-surgical function with that of healthy controls.
- Determine if surgical mandibular advancement improves oral function.
Main Methods:
- Compared 11 retrognathic patients (pre- and post-surgery) with 12 controls.
- Measured chewing efficiency (median particle size).
- Assessed maximum bite force and electromyographic (EMG) activity of masticatory muscles.
Main Results:
- Masticatory function, bite force, and muscle activity were not improved by surgery.
- Retrognathic patients showed lower chewing efficiency and bite force than controls.
- While muscle efficiency at maximal clenching was similar, patients had decreased efficiency at lower force levels.
Conclusions:
- Masticatory system function is impaired in patients with mandibular retrognathia.
- Mandibular advancement surgery does not significantly alter oral function in these patients.
- Further research may explore strategies to enhance muscle efficiency post-surgery.