The unilateral sagittal split osteotomy: A useful tool in the armamentarium for deeply impacted mandibular third molars

Abstract

The unilateral sagittal split osteotomy may not be a particularly popularized method to access and remove impacted mandibular third molars (M3Ms). However, in unusual cases of deep impaction, it can provide a surgical option that minimizes bone removal and may reduce the risk of iatrogenic mandibular fracture and inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury, depending on the position of the third molar relative to the neurovascular bundle. The unilateral sagittal split osteotomy may present an alternative method for removing impacted mandibular third molar teeth in certain situations.