Age as a factor in the complication rate after removal of

unerupted/impacted third molars at the time of mandibular

sagittal split osteotomy*
Author links open overlay panelJohan.P.ReynekeBChD, MChD, FC MFOS (SA)*PeterTsakirisBDS,
MScDent, Mdent(MFOS), FCD(CMSA)†PietBeckerPhD‡
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https://doi.org/10.1053/joms.2002.33114Get rights and content

Abstract
Purpose: This study was designed to investigate the effect that the presence of an
unerupted third molar has on the mandibular sagittal split osteotomy (SSO). Patients
and Methods: One operator performed 139 SSOs (70 right side and 69 left side) in 70
patients during a period of 6 months. Data related to gender, age, presence or absence
of unerupted third molar teeth, split difficulty during SSO, fracture complications of the
segment, neurovascular bundle involvement at surgery, removal of unerupted third
molar teeth, and the postoperative recovery of nerve function were
recorded. Results: The SSOs evaluated as technically difficult were significantly more
prevalent in mandibles with unerupted third molar teeth. All fractures (4) occurred in the
younger age group (<20 years) with unerupted third molars present at the time of
surgery. Although inferior alveolar nerve recovery was slower in the patients in whom
the unerupted third molar teeth were present at the time of surgery due to increased
frequency of neurovascular bundle manipulation, the recovery rates at 1 year were
equal. Conclusions: The presence of unerupted third molar teeth increases the degree
of difficulty of the SSO. Fracture of proximal and/or distal segments during SSO tend to
occur more frequently in the younger age group (<20 years) with an unerupted third
molar present. © 2002 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral
Maxillofac Surg 60:654-659, 2002