Anterior relapse or posterior drift after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy

This study aimed to evaluate the factors contributing to postoperative anterior relapse or posterior drift of the distal segment after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy. A retrospective cohort study was conducted which included 31 patients who underwent setback surgery for mandibular prognathism by the intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy technique. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association of potential explanatory variables (sex, age, magnitude of setback, differences in setback magnitude between sides (right/left), duration of splint use, Angle’s classification of malocclusion, mandibular angle, and tightness of occlusion of the molars) with positional changes in the distal segment. The setback magnitude was only significant factor affecting (P = 0.015) for posterior drift, with significant posterior in setback magnitudes of less than 7.25 mm. Posterior drift after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy is less likely if setback magnitude exceeds 7.25 mm. For setbacks less than 7.25 mm, posterior drift should either be carefully corrected postoperatively, or an alternative surgical technique should be used. The setback magnitude showed a significant association with the risk of posterior drift following intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy, and the determined cut-off value may serve as a predictor for postoperative outcomes.