Real-Time Navigation Assisted Orthognathic Surgery

Background: One limitation of orthognathic surgery is the narrow surgical field, which makes it difficult to view the operative site directly. Thus, many perioperative complications can occur. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of computer-aided navigation techniques in orthognathic surgery.

Methods: We enrolled ten patients (three men, seven women) with facial deformities treated between July 2010 and February 2011. A Le Fort I osteotomy, sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO), and reduction malarplasty were performed with guided navigation.

Results: All six patients were treated successfully using the computer-assisted navigation surgery. Using the navigation system, instruments were visualized on a monitor in real time, and all maneuvers were performed safely.

Conclusions: Orthognathic surgery, such as a Le Fort 1 osteotomy, SSRO, and reduction malarplasty, can be performed safely under the guidance of a surgical navigation system. Navigation systems enable surgeons to carry out preoperative plans accurately without injuring important anatomical structures, because the positions of the instruments can be visualized on site in real time.

Keywords: Orthognathic Surgery, Osteotomy, Sagittal split ramus osteotomy, Reduction malarplasty, Reconstructive surgery