pterygomaxillary disjunction
The surgical separation of the maxilla from the pterygoid plates, necessary for maxillary mobilization in orthognathic surgery.
Full Definition
Pterygomaxillary disjunction is a critical step in maxillary orthognathic surgery that involves the controlled separation of the maxilla from the pterygoid plates of the sphenoid bone. This maneuver is essential for achieving complete mobilization of the maxilla during Le Fort I osteotomies and other maxillary repositioning procedures. The disjunction is typically performed using curved osteotomes or specialized instruments inserted through the pterygomaxillary fissure. Proper execution of this step ensures that the maxilla can be moved freely in all directions without restriction from posterior attachments. Inadequate disjunction can lead to incomplete mobilization, unfavorable fractures, or inability to achieve the desired maxillary position.
Usage
Usage note: Critical to specify 'pterygomaxillary' rather than just 'pterygoid' to distinguish from muscle-related procedures.
In Context
- "Complete pterygomaxillary disjunction was achieved bilaterally without complications." — Operative report
- "The maxilla remained immobile until pterygomaxillary disjunction was performed." — Surgical technique description