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Condylar displacement related to mandibular symphyseal distraction
Stanley Braun1, J Alexandre Bottrel, Harry L Legan
1Orthodontics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. ortho.braun@Juno.com
Summary
Mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis causes lateral condylar displacement. The temporomandibular joints effectively accommodate these changes without symptom exacerbation.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Previous research assumed mandibular rotation around condylar centers during symphyseal distraction.
- This assumption lacked empirical validation regarding condylar movement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the actual condylar displacement patterns during mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis.
- To clarify the biomechanical behavior of the mandible and temporomandibular joints during this procedure.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 12 patients undergoing mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis (10 tooth-borne, 2 bone-borne).
- Radiographic assessment to measure condylar displacement in relation to distraction amount.
Main Results:
- A direct correlation was observed between the amount of symphyseal distraction and lateral condylar displacement.
- The rigid nature of distraction devices and soft tissue constraints necessitate this lateral movement.
- No new temporomandibular joint symptoms were reported, and pre-existing symptoms did not worsen.
Conclusions:
- Mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis results in predictable lateral condylar displacement.
- The temporomandibular joints demonstrate a capacity to adapt to these displacements without adverse clinical effects.