Effects of the changes in the condylar long axis angle and condylar position on temporomandibular symptoms after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy: a preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE:This study was conducted to characterize the effects of the changes in the condylar long axis and position on temporomandibular symptoms with respect proximal segment position after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO). STUDY DESIGN:Twenty Japanese patients with diagnosed jaw deformity underwent IVRO without internal fixation. Long-term changes in condylar long axis and position were assessed during postoperative follow-up examinations by using computed tomography, and t tests were performed for comparison. In addition, changes in temporomandibular symptoms were examined. RESULTS:The degree of axial rotation of the proximal segment changed significantly when the proximal segment was located laterally. Downward changes in condylar position significantly differed when the proximal segment was located posterolaterally. Forward changes in condylar position significantly differed when the proximal segment was located laterally; moreover, when the proximal segment was located laterally, temporomandibular symptoms disappeared. CONCLUSIONS:Lateral location of the proximal segment may be an important factor in the positive effects of IVRO, with respect to temporomandibular symptoms.