Surgical correction of transverse skeletal abnormalities in the maxilla and mandible.

The correction of transverse skeletal abnormalities occupies a special place in orthognathic surgery. Maxillofacial surgeons employ a variety of techniques, but treatment stability remains a common problem. This paper presents a range of therapeutic options with special emphasis on two little-known techniques for correcting transverse skeletal abnormalities: symphyseal distraction and mandibular constriction. These techniques are described and their indications discussed.