Le Fort II osteotomy.

Background: In comparison with the abundant literature on Le Fort I and III osteotomies, there is scant information on the Le Fort II osteotomy. Our goal in this study was to define the indications and techniques of the elective Le Fort II osteotomy. We reviewed our 30-year experience, which is the longest series of patients treated with Le Fort II osteotomies at a single institution.

Methods: A review of the records of 13 consecutive patients at our institution with a diagnosis of Le Fort II was conducted. Data analyzed included demographic information, indications, techniques, complications, and combined procedures. On the basis of surgical outcomes, a treatment algorithm was created.

Results: Thirteen patients had a diagnosis of Le Fort II at our institution. Five were excluded because of incomplete records or Le Fort II fracture repair. Three patients were male, and 5 were female. Their average age was 23 years, and the average follow-up was 60 months. Indications included nasomaxillary deviation related to unilateral coronal synostosis, hemifacial microsomia, Romberg disease, and noncleft nasomaxillary hypoplasia. The average estimated blood loss was 950 mL. Complications were persistent nasal deviation, temporary nasal obstruction, and a hematoma. Complementary procedures included bilateral sagittal split osteotomies, bone grafts, Le Fort I osteotomy, and repositioning of the zygoma.

Conclusions: On the basis of this review, we have elucidated the indications and less invasive techniques of the elective Le Fort II osteotomy. No major complications were observed. A management algorithm for performing the Le Fort II osteotomy is presented.