Hilotherapy vs. Kinesio Taping in Orthognathic Surgery Recovery

Comparison of the Effects of Hilotherapy and Kinesio Taping on Edema, Pain, and Trismus After Orthognathic Surgery

This prospective randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of kinesio taping and hilotherapy on postoperative edema, pain, and trismus in patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.

Orthognathic surgery frequently causes postoperative edema, pain, and trismus. The study compares two adjunctive therapies: kinesio taping and hilotherapy. Forty-four patients without systemic disease, undergoing Le Fort I + BSSRO, will be randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 will receive kinesio taping for 5 days. Group 2 will undergo hilotherapy for 48 hours. Pain (VAS), trismus (mouth opening), and edema (measured by both tape and 3D scanner) will be assessed at multiple postoperative time points. The goal is to determine the more effective intervention for postoperative recovery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients scheduled to undergo bimaxillary orthognathic surgery (Le Fort I + BSSRO)
• Age between 18 and 50 years
• No systemic disease
• Voluntary participation with signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of systemic disease or immunosuppressive medication
• Known allergy to kinesio tape
• Inability to attend follow-up appointments
• Facial anatomical deformities preventing measurement