Changes in the condylar volume and skeletal relapse following orthognathic surgery in patients with dentofacial deformity: A retrospective study.

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the changes in condylar volume and maxillofacial skeletal morphology according to sex as well as the relationship between condylar volume reduction and skeletal relapse in patients who underwent orthognathic surgery.

Methods: Ninety-five patients were categorized into skeletal Class III, Class II, and facial asymmetry groups. Computed tomography scans taken preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively were used for quantitative measurement.

Results: Postoperative condylar volume was reduced in both the Class II group and the deviated side of the asymmetry group. Both female and Class II deformity were significant predictors of postoperative reduction in the condylar volume. There was a significant correlation between skeletal relapse and postoperative change in condylar volume in the Class II group.

Conclusion: Postoperative condylar resorption may be associated with preoperative maxillofacial skeletal morphology and sex and also with skeletal relapse in the Class II group.