Combined simultaneous distraction osteogenesis of the maxilla and mandible using a single distraction device in...

Facial asymmetry in hemifacial microsomia can be corrected by an effective procedure of gradual distraction of the mandible. In younger children with deciduous dentition, changes in dental occlusion secondary from mandibular distraction can be easily corrected with orthodontic treatment. In older patients, mandibular elongation through distraction osteogenesis can produce good aesthetics but can create a severe alteration in occlusion requiring complex orthodontic treatment during an extended period. A Le Fort I osteotomy was performed simultaneously with mandibular corticotomy to avoid this problem. We present an 11-year-old patient with grade II hemifacial microsomia with facial asymmetry that was corrected with a combined simultaneous distraction of the maxilla and mandible using a single mandibular distraction device and an interdental splint. Excellent facial symmetry was achieved while maintaining preexisting dental occlusion.