Midline Mandibulotomy: Functional Outcomes / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although the oncologic validity and perioperative complications of midline mandibulotomy are well described, little attention has been directed toward the functional problems that may be associated with its use. METHOD: A retrospective evaluation of 14 patients who had undergone this procedure were examined to assess postoperative sensation, temporomandibular joint function, dental occlusion, and cosmesis. RESULTS: All patients had some sequelae but these were minor in nature. Nine of 14 patients had abnormal postoperative sensation, 8 of 14 patients had symptoms of TMJ abnormality, 11 of 14 patients were noted with a changed occlusion, but 71.4% patients had relatively good cosmetic outcomes. CONCLUSION: Although most sequelae are negligible and further treatment is not required, patients who have undergone midline mandibulotomy can expect to experience one or more relatively minor long-term functional sequelae. To minimize this problem, meticulous surgical repair and aggressive postoperative physical therapy are required.