Fixation of vertically distracted segment with dental implants after breakage of distraction device: case report

Distraction osteogenesis is an efficient method to augment the mandibular alveolar process for dental implants. Complications of this procedure include fracture of the basal bone, breakage of distractor, wound dehiscenses, undesirable soft tissue changes, and defective movement of the transported segment. We report a case of breakage of the distractor after mandibular alveolar vertical distraction osteogenesis. Mandibular alveolar vertical distraction osteogenesis was applied to 53-year-old woman for prosthetic rehabilitation. Fracture of the distraction device occurred on the 13th day of the activation phase. Radiographic examination revealed the fracture of the distractor rod and lingually displaced alveolar segment. Lingually displaced segment was successfully advanced to the desired position, and fixed to the basal bone using dental implants before the maturation of the distracted bone. We consider that this technique is eligible for the management of these kind of complications.