ABSTRACT
The need for segmental surgery, with the intention to align the dentoalveolar arches, has greatly been reduced, since it is now widely accepted that orthodontic treatment should be part of the treatment plan in patients with dentofacial deformities. Alignment of teeth and elimination of dentoalveolar compensation is usually achieved by orthodontic treatment alone, yet there still are indications for segmental surgery and they are discussed for each separate osteotomy. In general, however, segmental osteotomies carried out in the dentate area require enough available space for these osteotomies to be performed safely without damage to the periodontal apparatus. This implies that when segmental surgery is contemplated, this aspect should be carefully considered in the treatment plan so that spaces are created in the dental arches. In 1959, Kole recommended the use of this osteotomy to close an anterior open bite whilst the gap was grafted with bone taken from the lower border.
