title: Brain abscess as a complication of orthognathic surgery: diagnosis, management, and pathophysiology.
abstract: We present what we believe is the first case of a brain abscess resulting from orthognathic surgery reported in the literature. Although recent advances have significantly improved the treatment of brain abscesses, delays in diagnosis lead to persistent high rates of mortality. Often, the initial symptoms are vague and nonspecific. Commonly, the neurologic status of the patient deteriorates significantly before suspicion is raised and a CT scan is obtained. This case report is intended to benefit all practitioners who participate in the perioperative care of orthognathic surgery patients. Although the occurrence of a brain abscess is rare, it is hoped that this case will heighten the awareness of clinicians to this potential complication.
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 19104, USA.
authors.forename: S B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Baker
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Weinzweig
authors.forename: S P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Bartlett
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Whitaker
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001922:Brain Abscess / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures; D010027:Osteotomy; D019340:Osteotomy, Le Fort; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*