Volumetric Change in the Masseter and Lateral Pterygoid after Mandibular Setback

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated changes in the masseter and lateral pterygoid muscles in the prognathic mandible group after a mandibular setback by comparing the volume-to-length ratios. Preoperative and postoperative 1-year computed tomography was used to calculate the volume-to-length ratio of the lateral pterygoid and masseter muscle in 60 Korean individuals. Three-dimensional images were reconstructed, the results of which showed no significant differences in the volume-to-length ratios of the masseter and lateral pterygoid muscles after a mandibular setback (p > 0.05). This result was found for both vertical ramus osteotomy and sagittal split ramus osteotomy, and for both males and females. No significant differences in the volume-to-length ratio of the masseter and lateral pterygoid muscles were found up to 1 year after a mandibular setback. Therefore, this study can contribute to the prediction of soft-tissue profiles after mandibular setback.