Screening for variations in anterior digastric musculature prior to correction of post-traumatic anterior open bite by injection of botulinum toxin type A: a technical note

ABSTRACT

It has recently been reported that long-standing post-traumatic open bite can be successfully corrected with botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injection into the anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM). The report documented an individual with bilaterally symmetrical and otherwise unremarkable anterior digastric musculature. However, the existence of variant anterior digastric musculature is common and may complicate the management of anterior open bite with BTX-A injection. Screening for variant ABDM can be accomplished via ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Screening for variant ABDM should be performed prior to BTX-A injection in order to account for musculature that may exert undesired forces, such as inferolateral deviation, on the anterior mandible in patients with anterior open bite.