Distraction osteogenesis for bone repair in the 21st century: lessons learned

Bone regeneration obtained by distraction osteogenesis is influenced by a series of factors. These include factors that are related to the mechanical stability of the system of distraction (internal or external devices), and to factors directly depending on the biology of the bone tissue, such as the method of bone interruption (osteotomy), the delay and rhythm of distraction, the anatomical site of the osteotomy, and the histological characteristics of the bone requiring reconstruction. The stability of the system of bone fixation depends on the rigidity of the frame, the connexion of the apparatus to the bone (wires, pins) and the intrinsic stability of the segment (length and level of maturation of bone regenerate). The radiological characteristics of bone regeneration (hypo- or hypertrophy) lead to the adaptation of the rhythm of distraction. Following more than 28 years of experience of application of the Ilizarov method for bone reconstruction, the authors describe the technique of frame assembly and the methods of evaluation and treatment of the complications of new bone formation.