Comprehensive analysis of lateral nasal wall anatomy to optimize the osteotomy in different skeletal patterns.

PURPOSE: Variations in nasal wall anatomy are crucial in patients with dentofacial deformities undergoing Le Fort I osteotomy. These structural variations heighten the potential for complications during surgical procedures. Hence, the study focused on evaluating the differences in the lateral nasal wall anatomy across different skeletal Classes. METHODS: This study evaluated 86 patients aged 18-43 years with different skeletal Classes. In the axial images acquired from coronal sections, two angulations and the linear distances of the lateral nasal wall were measured in Class I, II, and III patients. The measurement between the piriform opening and the most anterior point of the greater palatine foramen was evaluated in three parts regarding the osteotomy line. Differences between the skeletal patterns were analyzed using an independent sample t-test and Mann-Whitney U test with a significance level of 0.05. The intra-class correlation coefficient was calculated for inter-observer and intra-observer agreement. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference between Class I and Class II subjects regarding the anterior lateral nasal wall (p = 0.011) and anterior nasal thickness (a) (0.004). There was a significant difference between Class I and Class III patients regarding anterior nasal thickness (a) (p < 0.001) and total lateral nasal wall length (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: For instance, the measurements of Class III and Class II patients were relatively different from those of the Class I patients. Therefore, preoperative Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic analysis should be performed for each patient prior to Le Fort I osteotomy to ensure that the procedure is performed safely.

Anatomical variations of the lateral pterygoid plate and their implications for temporomandibular disorders: A CBCT study.

OBJECTIVE: TMD is a multifaceted condition with various contributing factors, but the actual impact of the lateral pterygoid plate on the development of TMD remains uncertain. This research aims to investigate the relationship between anatomical variations of the lateral pterygoid plate (LPP), including its angle and proximity to the condyle, and the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD), to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic approaches for TMD. MATERIALS & METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 189 Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images of individuals aged 18 to 45. Inclusion criteria were based on definitive diagnoses of degenerative joint disease, excluding individuals with orthodontic treatments, injuries, or craniofacial disorders.Participants were divided into TMD and control groups using standardized DC/TMD protocols for assessment. A radiologist, blinded to the patient's clinical status, then analyzed the CBCT images. LPP dimensions, angles, and condyle distances were measured using OnDemand 3D Imaging Software. RESULTS: The study found a statistically significant higher average LPP length in females compared to males (right LPP p < 0,001, left LPP p = 0,004), with no significant differences in LPP-condyle distances and angles between genders. Comparing the TMD and control groups revealed a positive correlation between lateral plate angles and TMJ disorders (p = 0,044), suggesting a potential biomechanical linkage. CONCLUSION: Conclusively, the study challenges the assumption that LPP anatomical variations significantly impact TMD while underscoring a potential link between LPP angle and TMD. The novel insight into the potential role of the LPP angle in TMD provides a new direction for research and clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of considering subtle anatomical differences in the management of TMD.