The impact of the Hilotherapy mask on the quality of postoperative recovery following orthognathic surgery: A prospective study

Abstract

The Hilotherapy cooling and compression system consists of a mask made of polyurethane thermoplastic material, contoured to follow the shape of the face to regulate and maintain the temperature of the skin and maxillofacial cutaneous tissues via the mask water channel. Watercooled face masks have been used in orthognathic patients, with the aim of improving patient recovery and reducing postoperative swelling. Our study aims to assess the effectiveness of a Hilotherapy mask in reducing pain and improving patients’ recovery and QoL following orthognathic surgery via a questionnaire evaluating patients’ health statement and their satisfaction with the Hilotherm cooling mask after orthognathic surgery. Our results showed an overall satisfaction and improvement in patients’ health wellbeing QoL, self-care, mobility restrictions, and mental health (depression and anxiety) during the treatment. These findings indicate a positive outcome for these patients. It also suggests a protocol to improve patient recovery after orthognathic surgery with a limited use of steroids.