Maxillary distraction for the management of cleft maxillary hypoplasia with a rigid external distraction system

Maxillary hypoplasia is a common finding in patients with repaired orofacial clefts. Management of this condition has been a challenge to the reconstructive team. The introduction of distraction osteogenesis to treat craniofacial skeletal dysplasias has opened alternative approaches to manage these severe conditions. In this article, the authors present their technique to distract the hypoplastic cleft maxilla using a rigid external distraction device. The clinical assessment, indications, orthodontic procedure, surgical technique, and distraction protocol are reviewed. A case report shows the use of the technique. This technique allows the reconstructive team to treat patients in all age groups with predictable and stable results.