Sensory nerve morbidity following Le Fort I osteotomy

The Le Fort I osteotomy has been used increasingly frequently in the management of dentofacial deformity since the wide acceptance of the down-fracture technique. The improved access provided by this technique allows movement of the Le Fort I segment in three planes. This paper reviews briefly the neuroanatomy of the area and considers how the surgical technique of Le Fort I osteotomy interferes with the sensory nerve supply. The sensory nerve function in ten patients who underwent Le Fort I osteotomy is reviewed.