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Updated: Mar 21, 2026
Author Spotlight: Development of a Novel Finite Element Analysis Model for Improved Orthognathic Surgical Techniques
Published on: October 20, 2023
Biomechanical Effects of Novel Osteotomy Approaches on Mandibular Expansion: A Three-Dimensional Finite Element
Pradeep Singh1, Chao Wang2, Deepal Haresh Ajmera3
1Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences; Chongqing Municipal Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Engineering of Higher Education; and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Stomatology, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
Purpose:
Surgically assisted mandibular arch expansion has proved to be an effective treatment modality in alleviating constriction and crowding issues. However, only mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis has been in favor for the purpose of mandibular arch expansion. In addition, no relevant study has compared the biomechanical response of different osteotomy designs on mandibular expansion. The present study evaluated the effect of different osteotomy approaches and modes of loading on the expansion of the adult mandible using biomechanics.
Materials And Methods:
To address the research purpose, 9 finite element (FE) models, including 2 novel osteotomy designs, were simulated. Stress, strain, and displacement of crown, root, and bone were calculated and compared under different osteotomy approaches and loading conditions.
Results:
The biomechanical response envisaged by the FE models in terms of displacement on the X axis was consistent from the anterior to posterior teeth with parasymphyseal step osteotomy and a hybrid mode of force application. In addition, the amount of displacement predicted by parasymphyseal step osteotomy with the hybrid mode was greater compared with that of the other models.
Conclusions:
The results of our study suggest parasymphyseal step osteotomy with the hybrid mode is a viable treatment option for true bony expansion in the adult mandible.
