Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
A Mouse Distraction Osteogenesis Model
Published on: November 14, 2018
Gunshot wounds: reconstruction of the lower face by osteogenic distraction
D Labbé1, J Nicolas, E Kaluzinski
1Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, University Hospital, Caen, France. dr.labbe@wanadoo.fr
Background:
Although osteogenic distraction is a well-established technique, the distraction device still needs to be improved, miniaturized, and made lighter, more flexible, and more adaptable for mandibular reconstruction in adults with gunshot wounds. The authors successively used unidirectional and bidirectional devices, followed by a bone transporter with a horseshoe-shaped trammel. The trammel system was then replaced by an endless screw, and finally by a customized endless screw.
Methods:
Eleven adult patients with gunshot injuries underwent mandibular reconstruction using osteogenic distraction with an external device.
Results:
An average bone gain of 79 mm was achieved. No infectious complications were observed. The authors encountered equipment problems during the study, requiring a change of material. The mean duration of mandibular distraction was 3.5 months.
Conclusions:
Distraction of bone fragments facilitates the simultaneous expansion of soft tissues, avoiding free or pedicled myocutaneous flaps, for soft-tissue reconstruction. The alveolar ridge with the attached gum is also recreated by distraction, allowing dental reconstruction by osseointegrated implants.
