[Application of distraction osteogenesis in functional mandibular reconstruction]

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Engineering

Context:

• Mandibular defects resulting from tumor resection pose significant challenges for functional reconstruction.
• Traditional reconstruction methods may have limitations in restoring both form and function.
• Distraction osteogenesis presents a viable alternative for complex mandibular reconstructions.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the efficacy and application of distraction osteogenesis in reconstructing mandibular defects.
• To assess the suitability of various distraction devices for different types of mandibular defects.
• To determine the optimal timing for distraction osteogenesis in the context of oncologic surgery.

Summary:

• This study applied distraction osteogenesis using specialized distractors in six patients with mandibular defects post-tumor resection.
• Successful mandibular lengthening was achieved in five cases; one case using trifoci distraction principles had partial success due to fixation issues.
• No adverse events like infection or dysosteogenesis were observed, indicating a favorable safety profile.

Impact:

• Distraction osteogenesis demonstrates significant advantages over traditional techniques for mandibular functional reconstruction.
• Concurrent execution of distraction osteogenesis with tumor resection is recommended for improved functional results.
• This technique holds promise for enhancing patient quality of life following extensive oral cancer surgery.