The Use of Surgical Splints in Orthognathic Surgery: A Bibliometric Study

Abstract

Introduction Orthognathic surgeries require the use of surgical splints (SS) to stabilize the occlusion and the segments fixed with plates and screws. Technological advances in the field of computing and the possibility of generating three-dimensional (3D) images have brought different possibilities for making SS, which has generated greater predictability and customization of surgical plans. The bibliometric study can have a qualitative character through the scope of articles in a certain area of knowledge. It is a selection process that can track a topic or scientific production. Methods The present study aimed to carry out a bibliometric literature review, in order to assess the evolution of the use of SS and the different planning protocols in orthognathic surgery. The Scopus database was used, with the terms “splint” and “orthognathic surgery.” Results A total of 331 articles were found. These were exported to Rayyan for application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria and selection of articles. A total of 76 references were selected and exported to the VOSviewer application for the analysis of bibliometric data. Conclusions Orthognathic surgery was initially not associated with any computerized technological resource; however, it underwent updates between the years 2010 to 2012. These advances allowed surgical planning to become faster, cheaper, and more accurate.

Modification of surgical and positioning splint for orthognathic surgical treatment of facial asymmetry

“…Recent bibliometric analysis revealed that contemporary studies related with orthognathic surgery topics are mostly concentrated around usage of computer-aided technologies during complex treatment, virtual planning and modifications of surgical splints with the aim to personalize treatment sequence [1,2]. Even though virtual treatment planning and use of 3D printing technology have not became obligatory within orthognathic surgery, but it is already established that such approaches largely increase level of treatment individualization and help to achieve better patientoriented outcomes [3].…”