Lower Vestibular Incision: A Modified Technique of Dissection

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Anatomical Dissection Techniques

Background:

• Conventional surgical approaches to the anterior mandible for trauma or orthognathic surgery involve incisions and manipulation of the mentalis muscle.
• Transection and repositioning of the mentalis muscle are critical steps to prevent post-operative lip ptosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a modified dissection technique for anterior mandible access.
• To describe a method for preserving or carefully transecting and reorienting the mentalis muscle.

Main Methods:

• A modified dissection technique is detailed.
• The technique focuses on identifying the mentalis muscles at their insertion.
• Isolation and preservation or controlled transection and reorientation of the mentalis muscles are key steps.

Main Results:

• The modified technique allows for anatomical identification and management of the mentalis muscles.
• This approach aims to preserve the muscle's function and native position.

Conclusions:

• The modified method offers a direct and functional anatomical approach to the anterior mandible.
• This technique may improve outcomes by minimizing muscle damage and preventing lip ptosis.