The stability of Le Fort I advancement osteotomies using bone plates without bone grafts.

The stability of Le Fort I advancement osteotomies using 4 "Champy" stainless steel mini plates without bone grafts was studied. Eleven consecutive patients, 3 of whom had cleft lips and palates were evaluated retrospectively. Seven patients had bimaxillary procedures. Cephalometric radiographs were taken preoperatively, immediately after operation and at least six months later. The mean maxillary advancement in the horizontal direction was 3.7 mm. The radiographs were traced and the results were subjected to a statistical analysis. No significant relapse was found.