Auditory changes in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2009 Nov;38(11):1148-53. doi: 10.1016/j.ijom.2009.06.002. Epub 2009 Jul 7.

Abstract

During orthognathic surgery, especially on the maxilla, osteotomies and displacements cause paratubular muscle dysfunction due to edema and muscle traction. This can cause auditory dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of orthognathic surgery on the auditory status of patients. 54 consecutive patients who met the inclusion criteria underwent audiometric tests 24h preoperatively, and 48 h 6 weeks and 8 weeks postoperatively (2 weeks after maxillomandibular fixation removal). Surgery was on the maxilla, mandible or both. The types of movements were recorded. Audiometric examinations included pure tone audiometry, tympanometry and Eustachian tube function test. In the maxillary and bimaxillary procedures, there was some auditory system dysfunction (p<0.05). At the end of the study, a few patients had some mild dysfunction (p<0/05). In conclusion, orthognathic surgery (mainly maxillary and bimaxillary procedures) can cause some auditory system dysfunction, which is mild and transient in most cases and requires no intervention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Impedance Tests
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Audiometry, Pure-Tone
  • Eustachian Tube / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss, Conductive / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthognathic Surgical Procedures / adverse effects*
  • Osteotomy, Le Fort / adverse effects
  • Young Adult