Distraction osteogenesis in the craniomaxillofacial region. Part 1: history, principles, indications, types and protocol

Abstract: Distraction osteogenesis offers superior skeletal advancement compared to conventional osteotomy. As the surgical outcomes can be technically-dependent, it is important to understand the principle, indications, assessment and preparation prior to its application. This review is the first part of two articles which will provide clinicians updates on the history, principles, clinical indications, types of devices and protocol for distraction osteogenesis in the craniomaxillofacial region. Important issues in these essential aspects of distraction osteogenesis are comprehensively discussed based on clinical cases and supported by literature. Understanding the principles of distraction osteogenesis is mandatory to ensure optimum surgical outcome. The technique offers many advantages to the field of craniomaxillofacial surgery and can be considered as an alternative bone augmentation and lengthening technique as it produces stable and reliable outcomes

Distraction osteogenesis in the craniomaxillofacial region. Part II: peri operative issues, surgical procedure, complications and reliability

Distraction osteogenesis(DO) has been revolutionized in the past 20 years. Ever since the technique was introduced by Ilizarov, the application of this technique been extended into various region in human body including in craniomaxillofacial region. Extensive research in various aspects of this technique has been done to provide scientific evidence and better understanding thus optimizing the surgical outcome to patients. The superiority of DO in overcoming limitations in conventional surgery resulted in greater application in treating deformity over the craniomaxillofacial region. This second part of DO application in craniomaxillofacial region article emphasizes on theclinical aspects of DO focusing on the peri-operative issues, important surgical aspects, related complications and reliability of this technique. Understanding of the clinical and technical components of DO will ensure favourable and predictable outcome when DO become the treatment of choice