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Anatomical factors associated with the lingual fracture pattern in sagittal split ramus osteotomy: A case-control study

Moreira Suassuna T, Dos Santos EGF, de Melo Filho SMC, de Castro CCLP, Fonseca Faro T, Araújo FSMDS, Martins-de-Barros AV, Araújo FADC

PloS one, 2025

Abstract

Unfavorable fractures are among the most challenging complications in sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO), potentially increasing surgical morbidity and compromising postoperative outcomes. The preoperative identification of anatomical risk factors through imaging can enhance surgical planning and prevent such events. This study aims to investigate the anatomical factors associated with lingual fracture patterns in SSRO using multislice computed tomography. This retrospective case-control study included 180 mandibular rami from patients who underwent SSRO at a Clinical Research Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Fractures were classified according to Plooij (2009), with Types 3 and 4 grouped as cases and Types 1 and 2 as controls. Linear measurements of mandibular ramus thickness, the distance between the mandibular canal and the buccal cortical bone, as well as parameters related to the mandibular lingula were analyzed. The case group showed significantly thinner mandibular bone (p 0.05). These results underscore the importance of anatomical parameters in predicting the risk of unfavorable fractures. Specifically, reduced bone thickness and proximity of the mandibular canal play a crucial role in the occurrence of unfavorable SSRO fractures. Preoperative evaluation using computed tomography is essential to optimize surgical planning and minimize complications. However, given the limitations of retrospective designs potential biases are acknowledged, and further…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.

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