Recovery of neurosensory function of the maxillofacial region following orthognathic surgery

Background. One of the most common complications of orthognathic surgery is neurosensory deficit of the trigeminal nerve
branches. Various diagnostic methods are used to determine the area of the deficit and the duration of the recovery period.
The purpose of this study was to determine the recovery patterns of sensory and pain sensitivity using 3 neurological
tests after Le Fort I osteotomy of the maxilla (Le Fort I), bicortical sagittal split osteotomy of the mandible (BSSO) and
chin osteotomy (GENIO).
Material and methods. The study included 40 patients (14 males and 26 females) aged 18-45 years with skeletal anomalies
and was carried out at the Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery of the A.I. Evdokimov Moscow State Medical
University. Surgical interventions included Le Fort I osteotomy of the maxilla (Le Fort I), bicortical sagittal split osteotomy
of the mandible (BSSO), and chin osteotomy (GENIO).
Results. Patients with neurosensory deficit of the trigeminal nerve branches following Le Fort I osteotomy, BSSO, and
chin osteotomy were followed for 12 months. The obtained results are illustrated in graphical form.
Conclusion. Patients with neurosensory deficits following Le Fort I osteotomy had the shortest recovery period. Patients
following BSSO combined with GENIO osteotomy had the highest incidence of NSD (neurosensory deficit). Despite this,
neurosensory deficit can be reversible.
Keywords: neurosensory deficit, orthognathic surgery complications, neurological tests, Le Fort I, bicortical sagittal split
osteotomy
Conflicts of interest. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
Funding. There was no funding for this study