Aesthetic and functional implications following rotation of the maxillomandibular complex in orthognathic surgery: a systematic review

The manipulation of the maxillomandibular complex (MMC) in orthognathic surgery has been used widely in the treatment of dentofacial deformities so as to optimize aesthetic and functional results, making these more stable in the long term. The aim of the present study was to perform a systematic literature review of the aesthetic and functional implications following rotation of the occlusal plane in orthognathic surgery, by evaluating skeletal stability, facial harmony, respiratory function, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function after clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the MMC. A survey of Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane databases was performed through which 10 papers were selected for the final review. From this review, it could be concluded that facial aesthetics, TMJ function, and skeletal and occlusal stability in the orthosurgical treatment of dentofacial deformities may be influenced by the surgical manipulation of the MMC (clockwise or counterclockwise rotation). However, although this treatment technique is used widely today, the results of the present study do not provide sufficient scientific evidence with regard to the choice of this approach.