Piezoelectric distraction osteogenesis in the atrophic maxillary anterior area: a case report

The reconstruction of a maxillary anterior dentoalveolar defect in patients with trauma has been a challenge for surgeons. Extensive loss of bone and teeth in the anterior maxilla presents a complex problem for reconstruction. This is owing to the difficulty in achieving complete closure using overlying soft tissue. Tension-free sutures cannot be used after a large bone graft because the overlying soft tissue on severe bone defects of the anterior maxilla is often deficient and is attached to the underlying atrophic bone by scarring. Distraction osteogenesis provides a method to regain both hard tissue and soft tissue without any grafting. We describe a patient who had severe maxillary anterior bony defects that were restored by means of piezoelectric distraction osteogenesis, followed by dental implant placement. Clinical, radiological, and histological results showed that the reconstruction was successful.