TMJ performance and behaviour in patients more than 6 years after Le Fort I osteotomy

Sixteen non cleft patients treated by one piece Le Fort I osteotomy were investigated for TMJ symptoms. Clinical examination and subjective assessment by the patients was used over a 6-year period. No increase in symptoms was recorded in the osteotomy group as compared to the general population, however, condylar atrophy was seen in two patients. Both of these patients were classified as high mandibular plane angle, with absolute mandibular retrognathism. This suggests that this group may be at greater risk of condylar atrophy.