[Short sagittal osteotomy]

Abstract

Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy has become the standard mandibular surgery for the treatment of dento-facial deformities. Even patients with less important deformities may undergo surgery. The morbidity must be as low as possible. We describe a technique with reduced split surfaces. The osseous section follows an oblique line since the thorn of Spix below and outside towards the supra-angular region. This section is completed by an osteotomy of the posterior border of the mandible. This split never reaches the inferior alveolar nerf tunnel. The protection of the alveolar nerve is increased what decreases considerably the risk of nervous complications of this intervention. The majority of the mandibular movements are possible by this technique with the exception of the important advancements and the increase of the height of the ramus.