Obwegeser II method for correction of mandibular prognathism. Case reports

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthognathic Surgery
• Skeletal Class III Malocclusion

Background:

• Severe mandibular prognathism with open bite often requires significant mandibular setback.
• Traditional sagittal splitting techniques (Obwegeser I, Obwegeser-Dal Pont) are generally considered contraindicated for large posterior repositioning (>15 mm).

Observation:

• Two cases of severe mandibular prognathism with open bite requiring substantial mandibular repositioning were analyzed.
• The Obwegeser II (1964) surgical technique was employed in both cases.
• One patient underwent partial tongue resection to mitigate the risk of postoperative relapse.

Findings:

• The Obwegeser II method successfully addressed severe mandibular prognathism with open bite.
• Excellent outcomes were achieved in terms of both facial aesthetics and occlusal function.
• Partial glossectomy in one case potentially contributed to preventing relapse.

Implications:

• The Obwegeser II method is a viable surgical option for complex cases of mandibular prognathism with open bite.
• Adjunctive procedures like partial glossectomy may be beneficial in preventing relapse in select patients.
• This study expands the surgical armamentarium for correcting severe skeletal discrepancies in orthognathic surgery.