Ostectomy in the mandible.
Fourteen patients, diagnosed as cases of apertognathism, were subjected to ostectomy in the premolar or molar region on both sides. The operations were made with an intraoral approach in the premolar region anterior to the molar foramen and extraorally in the molar region. The mandibular segments were immobilized by cap-splints after the operations. A follow up, clinically and roentgenologically, was made after the splints had been removed and, in addition, one and five years later. The aesthetic as well as the functional results of the operations were very good. Only minor changes in the occlusion occurred during the follow up period. In a few patients minor unilateral decreases of sensibility were observed. The late results of the operations must therefore be regarded as good.