Distraction osteogenesis

Abstract

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) of the craniomaxillofacial skeleton has been an adaptation of the original studies on lengthening posttraumatic long bone injuries. Using the principles elucidated by Ilizarov, and building on the work of McCarthy, the scope of DO in the head and neck region has expanded dramatically. Capitalizing on the extensive body of work by orthopedic surgeons in fracture repair, those interested in the congenital and acquired conditions of the head and neck have been able to adapt the technique for bone lengthening throughout the craniofacial skeleton. Using the concepts of tension, stress, and blood supply, the process of distraction osteogenesis is now well anchored in the armamentarium of craniofacial surgeons. Deficiencies of soft tissue, scarring, and limited bone stock can now be overcome by gradual lengthening of the soft callus, along a vector with semirigid fixation; scarless bone formation can lend to the improvement of airway/breathing, masticatory function, eye protection, brain function, and finally craniofacial form.