Saggital Split

What Is a Sagittal Split Osteotomy?

The Sagittal Split Osteotomy is one of the most commonly used procedures to correct a mandible retrusion (overbite), or a mandibular prognathism (underbite). The lower jaw (mandible) is split and moved either backward or forward to straighten it into a more balanced position.

The Sagittal Split Osteotomy was invented and first performed in Innsbruck, Austria by Hugo Obwegeser (a mentor of Dr. Deschamps-Braly). He then popularized the procedure at the University Hospital Zurich in Switzerland, in the 1960’s. The operation has since evolved and may be performed in different ways depending on the needs of the patient. Although there are other types of procedures to move the lower jaw forward and more complex osteotomies, this procedure in its most basic form has been the best technique for moving the lower jaw for over forty years. Dr. Deschamps-Braly himself has modified the procedure so that it results in slightly less swelling than the original technique. The procedure is very safe with a high satisfaction rate from patients.