[Distraction osteogenesis and orofacial anomalies]

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Distraction Osteogenesis

Context:

• Orofacial anomalies require combined orthodontic and surgical treatment.
• Distraction osteogenesis presents novel approaches for skeletal reconstruction.
• Conventional osteotomies are standard for correcting jaw discrepancies.

Purpose:

• To explore the applications and potential benefits of distraction osteogenesis in treating orofacial anomalies.
• To compare distraction osteogenesis with conventional osteotomy techniques.
• To highlight areas where scientific evidence for distraction osteogenesis is still needed.

Summary:

• Distraction osteogenesis enables mandibular widening and vertical lengthening, and midfacial advancement (Le Fort I, II, III).
• Maxillary widening is a common application of distraction osteogenesis.
• Potential advantages include earlier treatment, reduced nerve damage, greater displacement, improved stability, and less need for bone grafts.

Impact:

• Distraction osteogenesis serves as a valuable adjunct to conventional osteotomies.
• Further research is required to substantiate the claimed advantages of distraction osteogenesis.
• This technique expands treatment possibilities for complex craniofacial deformities.