Results of an evaluation of clinical practice in orthognathic surgery in France in 2002

BACKGROUND: Over the years, orthognathic surgery has become a mainstay of maxillofacial surgery and is the object of many publications and oral communications. However, in spite of well-established methodology, disparities still exist in France basically concerning the way orthognathic surgery is performed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In relation with the XXXIXth congress of Stomatology and Maxillofacial surgery, a questionnaire was mailed to 100 French maxillofacial surgeons. Questions dealing with some practical points of orthognathic surgery (condylar positioning, osteosynthesis technique, rate of condylar resorption.) were asked. RESULTS: Overall reply rate was 37%. Condylar positioning was performed empirically in 73% of the cases. Mandibular osteosynthesis was achieved by titanium miniplates alone in 70%. Post-operative condylar resorption rate was about 2%. This survey produced numerous astute comments. DISCUSSION: This survey highlighted the interest of maxillofacial surgeons for practical aspects of orthognathic surgery including the questions of condylar positioning or osteosynthesis technique. These points are instrumental in achieving high-quality surgical result.