The Development of Bimaxillary Osteotomies of the Mandible and Maxilla/Midface: Introduction

The skeletal position of the jaws is genetically determined. Typical positional relationships of the jaws include classifiable occlusal forms and externally recognizable, almost typifying esthetic features of each face. Classification was essential for the development of systematic treatment concepts in order to enable structured treatments in the first place, which must also be communicated internationally. In addition to the statements in the Volumes I and II on malocclusions of the mandible and maxilla, cleft malformations extend the spectrum of growth disorders in the midface. The underdevelopment of the maxilla and midface, which is common in cleft patients, were also the reason for surgical corrective approaches in the midface region. In the presence of prognathism in the mandible, the combination of osteotomies in the midface/upper jaw and mandible was obvious. Today, at established centers in orthognathic surgery, the majority of orthognathic patients are treated with bimaxillary procedures.