Quantitative Mandibular Angle Ostectomy Facilitated by Oscillating-Blade Saw With Scalable Guide

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Although various techniques of mandibular angle ostectomy have been devised to correct overly prominent bony contours, none have incorporated methods to delineate the surgical line with precision. Herein, the authors describe one means of marking an ostectomy line more easily, using a specially designed oscillating-blade saw.

METHODS: Between July 2013 and June 2014, a total of 75 patients underwent quantitative mandibular angle ostectomy using a custom oscillating-blade saw equipped with a scalable guide. Corticectomy, also done routinely to improve frontal appearance, called for a reciprocating saw only. Aesthetic outcomes gauged subjectively by the questionnaire about satisfaction and symmetry after postoperative 6 months.

RESULTS: Satisfaction score was 4.9 and symmetric score was 4.7. No major complications, such as persistent nerve injury or fracture, were encountered.

CONCLUSIONS: Use of an oscillating-blade saw equipped with a scalable guide facilitated quantitative mandibular angle ostectomy, enabling precise, and reproducible surgery with satisfactory outcomes with less complications.