Le Fort I osteotomy
Pronunciation: /lə ˈfɔr wʌn/
Horizontal maxillary osteotomy that separates the tooth-bearing segment from the upper facial skeleton.
Full Definition
Le Fort I osteotomy is the most commonly performed maxillary osteotomy in orthognathic surgery, involving a horizontal bone cut that separates the maxillary alveolar process and palate from the remainder of the maxilla. This allows for advancement, setback, impaction, or lengthening of the maxilla to correct dentofacial deformities. The procedure follows the anatomical weakness described in René Le Fort's classification of facial fractures, but is performed in a controlled surgical manner with preservation of the blood supply through the soft tissue pedicle.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Le Fort' as it is a proper noun derived from the surgeon's name.
In Context
- "Le Fort I osteotomy with 4mm advancement was performed to correct the Class III malocclusion." — Operative report
- "Complications of Le Fort I osteotomy may include numbness in the distribution of the infraorbital nerve." — Patient education material