Changes in the transverse dimensions by vertical ramus osteotomy after mandibular prognathism correction

A harmonious face displays not only a good lateral profile but also a pleasant frontal appearance. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the changes in the transverse dimensions by vertical ramus osteotomy (VRO) in the treatment of mandibular prognathism correction. Twenty patients who underwent mandibular prognathism correction by VRO were included. Lateral and frontal cephalometric radiographs were obtained at the following stages: preoperative (T1), immediately after the surgery (T2), and completion of orthodontic treatment (T3). Three linear measurements (menton, intercondylion, and intergonial distances) and the ramus angle were compared from T1 to T3. A final mean menton setback of 12.2 mm and upward movement of 0.3 mm were noted. The intercondylion and intergonial distances significantly increased by 5.1 and 7.1 mm, respectively. Without significant difference, ramus angles decreased 1.7 degrees in the right side and 0.1 degrees in the left side. The surgical correction of mandibular prognathism using VRO led to an increase in the transverse dimensions.