Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the postoperative changes of the condyle in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion and mandibular lateral displacement (MLD), and to study the relationship between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation.
Materials and methods
A total of thirty patients diagnosed with skeletal Class III malocclusion and MLD underwent orthodontic and orthognathic treatment. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were obtained in 3 different time points. Condylar measurements were performed using 3D Slicer software. The correlation between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation was analyzed.
Results
Asymmetry of condylar morphology and position were observed. Condyles on both sides displaced laterally, posteriorly, and inferiorly, rotating inward YAW, rotating outward ROLL for the deviation side (DS) condyle and inward ROLL for the deviation opposite side (DOS) condyle during T1-T2. Condyles on both sides displaced mesially, anteriorly, and superiorly, rotating outward YAW and inward ROLL during T2-T3. The direction of the condylar rotation during T1-T3 was consistent with T1-T2. Asymmetric mandibular setback was correlated with inward YAW and inward ROLL of the DOS condyle, as well as outward ROLL of the DS condyle.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that postoperative displacement and rotation of the condyles were observed in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion and MLD. Additionally, there was a correlation between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation.
Clinical relevance
When developing a surgical plan to correct MLD through asymmetric mandibular setback, the adverse displacement and rotation of the condyle should be considered to avoid postoperative complications.