Evaluation of changes following advancement genioplasty using finite element analysis

This study examined skeletal stability and the remodelling process following advanced pedicled genioplasty. Twenty patients who had advancement genioplasty concomitant with other adjunctive orthognathic surgery were evaluated. A finite element analysis method was used to assess these changes. The stability of the advanced segment was excellent after 6 months. At 6 months bone remodelling was observed in the form of bone apposition at B point and Pogonion with bone resorption at the superior aspect of the advanced segment. The genial segment rotated about 12 degrees antero-superiorly which was thought to be due to the action of the mentalis muscle. Finite element analysis is a sensitive tool for assessing changes after genioplasty and was able to separate them from the effects of other adjunctive orthognathic surgery.