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Computer-assisted teaching of bilateral sagittal split osteotomy: Learning curve for condylar positioning
Charles Savoldelli1, Emmanuel Chamorey2, Georges Bettega3,4
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Head and Neck Institute, University Hospital of Nice, Nice, France.
Computer-assisted surgery significantly improves condylar positioning during bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). This technology aids trainees in achieving better results and faster skill acquisition compared to traditional methods.
Area of Science:
- Orthognathic Surgery
- Maxillofacial Surgery
- Computer-Assisted Surgery
Background:
- Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) is crucial for correcting dentofacial deformities.
- Accurate condylar positioning is vital to prevent temporomandibular joint issues post-BSSO.
- Current methods often rely on empirical experience, making trainee skill assessment challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of computer-assisted surgery in enhancing condylar positioning skills among trainees.
- To compare skill acquisition with and without a condyle positioning system (CPS).
Main Methods:
- BSSO was performed on 48 patients by six maxillofacial trainees.
- Condylar positioning was assessed in two phases: without and with visual access to a CPS score.
- Six parameters of 3D condylar motion and a total score were analyzed.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in positioning between junior and senior residents without CPS.
- Significantly better condylar positioning was achieved with CPS access (p<0.001).
- CPS use led to significantly faster score improvements over time (p=0.042).
Conclusions:
- Computer-assisted surgery, specifically a CPS, facilitates superior condylar repositioning during BSSO.
- This technology can accelerate learning curves for surgical trainees.
- Utilizing CPS aids in achieving accurate occlusion and mitigating adverse temporomandibular joint effects.
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