Meta-analysis of the Incidence of Lingual Nerve Deficits After Mandibular Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy

Introduction: Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy is a relatively common maxillofacial surgical procedure. The most commonly reported complication is neurosensory disturbances (NSD). The inferior alveolar nerve is by far the most commonly affected but sporadic reports of NSD of the lingual nerve also exist. The aim of this meta-analysis is to estimate the incidence of lingual nerve NSD following bilateral sagittal split osteotomy. Materials and Methods: A systematic search of the English literature was conducted in February 2015 including several databases and using numerous MeSH terms. Article selection was based on preset criteria. Then pertinent data were collected and the incidence of the complications was calculated. Results: Three articles were included in the meta-analysis. Incidence rates ranged between 0.3% and 18% with a pooled incidence of 0.7%. Discussion: Lingual nerve NSD is an infrequent complication of bilateral sagittal split osteotomy. Fortunately, the complication usually resolves within 1 year of the procedure.