Three-dimensional evaluation of lingual split line after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy in asymmetric prognathism

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the pattern of lingual split line when performing a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) for asymmetric prognathism. This was accomplished with the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and three-dimensional (3D) software program. Materials and Methods: The study group was comprised of 40 patients (20 males and 20 females) with asymmetric prognathism, who underwent BSSO (80 splits; n=80) from January 2012 through June 2013. We observed the pattern of lingual split line using CBCT data and image analysis program. The deviated side was compared to the contralateral side in each patient. To analyze the contributing factors to the split pattern, we observed the position of the lateral cortical bone cut end and measured the thickness of the ramus that surrounds the mandibular lingula. Results: The lingual split patterns were classified into five types. The true “Hunsuck” line was 60.00% (n=48), and the bad split was 7.50% (n=6). Ramal thickness surrounding the lingual was 5.55±1.07 mm (deviated) and 5.66±1.34 mm (contralateral) (P =0.409). The position of the lateral cortical bone cut end was classified into three types: A, lingual; B, inferior; C, buccal. Type A comprised 66.25% (n=53), Type B comprised 22.50% (n=18), and Type C comprised 11.25% (n=9). Conclusion: In asymmetric prognathism patients, there were no differences in the ramal thickness between the deviated side and the contralateral side. Furthermore, no differences were found in the lingual split pattern. The lingual split pattern correlated with the position of the lateral cortical bone cut end. In addition, the 3D-CT reformation was a useful tool for evaluating the surgical results of BSSO of the mandible.