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Force level and strain patterns during bilateral mandibular osteodistraction
J B Cope1, J Yamashita, S Healy
1TAMUS-Baylor College of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics, Dallas, TX 75266-0677, USA. jasoncope@orthodontist.net
Summary
Device orientation significantly impacts mandibular distraction osteogenesis. Orienting devices parallel to the mandibular body increases lateral forces and bone strain, unlike parallel alignment to the distraction axis.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Orthodontics
Background:
- Device orientation is crucial in mandibular distraction osteogenesis.
- Understanding biomechanical forces is essential for optimizing surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate force levels and strain patterns during mandibular distraction.
- To compare biomechanical effects of device orientation parallel to the mandibular body versus the sagittal axis of distraction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized five human cadaver mandibles in a custom apparatus.
- Measured lateral force and bone strain using transducers and strain gauges at 5 and 10 mm distraction.
- Compared device orientation parallel to the mandibular body versus parallel to the distraction axis.
Main Results:
- Significantly greater lateral forces were observed with devices oriented parallel to the mandibular body.
- This orientation resulted in increased tensile strains (labial symphysis, medial ramus) and compressive strains (lingual symphysis, lateral ramus).
- No significant forces or strains were detected when devices were oriented parallel to the distraction axis.
Conclusions:
- Device orientation critically influences biomechanical forces and strain distribution during mandibular osteodistraction.
- Findings suggest specific device alignment may optimize treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects.