Quality of life after different approaches of orthognathic surgery: a randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Over the last decade, the accuracy of 3D computer-assisted orthognathic surgery has been extensively investigated. However, patient-reported outcome measures have been rarely reported for this technology. This study aimed to assess quality of life following orthognathic surgery using CAD/CAM bone splints compared to the classic occlusal wafers in patients with dentofacial deformities. METHODS: Thirty-two patients were randomly allocated into two groups where group I utilized CAD/CAM splints and patient specific osteosynthesis for maxillary positioning and group II utilized occlusal wafers fabricated on a semi-adjustable articulator. Patients were assessed using orthognathic quality of life Questionnaire (OQLQ) preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean OQLQ overall score change of 24.375±11.96 took place in group I patients while group II showed a mean change of 23±8.39. CONCLUSIONS: The study showed evident improvement in quality of life following orthognathic surgery compared to before surgery. However, computer-assisted surgery did not show any significant improvement over the classic approach.