Articular disc position in association with mandibular setback surgery.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of orthognathic surgery on articular disc position and temporomandibular disorder symptoms of skeletal class III patients by means of clinical and radiographic evaluation of the temporomandibular joint.

Study Design: Thirty-six patients with skeletal class III malocclusion, who were treated at Kangnam St. Mary's Hospital between January 2005 and January 2006, were evaluated by clinical examination and pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging.

Results: The change of articular disc position after mandibular setback surgery by means of sagittal split ramus osteotomy was not statistically significant, but it tended to be positioned posteriorly.

Conclusion: It can be suggested that orthognathic surgery does not significantly change the position of the articular disc.