[Orthodontic-surgical treatment of patients with mandibular hypoplasia]

Abstract

A combined orthodontic-surgical treatment strategy for patients with mandibular hypoplasia is presented. The importance of a proper diagnosis on which the treatment should be based is emphasised. The principles of the orthodontic pre and postoperative treatment and the surgery are explained. The possibility to use the curve of Spee to gain vertical chin height is emphasised. This can be achieved by levelling of this curve postoperatively. Possible unfavourable side effects are mentioned. It is concluded that highly predictable results can be achieved using the described techniques.