Internal craniofacial distraction with biodegradable devices: early stabilization and protected bone regeneration

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Internal craniofacial distraction offers advantages over external devices, including less conspicuous scarring and improved device stability.
• Current internal devices, like the Modular Internal Distraction System, can be difficult to remove, necessitating extensive surgical procedures.
• Syndromic craniosynostosis often requires secondary reconstructive surgery, highlighting the need for less invasive distraction device management.

Observation:

• The Modular Internal Distraction System, while effective for midface distraction, presents challenges in device explantation.
• A substantial surgical procedure is typically required for removing internal distraction devices.
• There is a clinical need for distraction devices that are easily removable and promote bone regeneration.

Findings:

• A novel biodegradable distraction device has been developed in collaboration with Macropore, Inc. for simplified removal.
• This new device integrates with the Modular Internal Distraction system, allowing for less invasive explantation.
• A biodegradable stabilizer has also been created to facilitate early device removal while ensuring distraction gap fixation and bone regeneration.
• The feasibility of midcourse correction during the distraction procedure has been demonstrated.

Implications:

• The developed biodegradable device and stabilizer offer a less invasive approach to craniofacial distraction, particularly for syndromic craniosynostosis.
• Easier device removal can accelerate patient recovery and reduce overall treatment burden.
• Simultaneous fixation and protected bone regeneration within the distraction gap are facilitated by the new stabilizer.
• The ability to perform midcourse corrections enhances the adaptability and precision of craniofacial distraction procedures.