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Is it possible to shorten the jaws using contraction osteogenesis?
Alper Alkan1, Erdem Kilic, Hakan Ocak
1Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
Summary
This study demonstrates that jawbones can be shortened using a novel contraction osteogenesis technique. Researchers successfully reduced mandible length in sheep, indicating a new possibility for bone reconstruction.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Surgical correction of jaw deformities often requires complex procedures.
- Techniques for bone lengthening are well-established, but bone shortening methods are less explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of shortening osteotomized jaws using a reverse distraction mechanism.
- To evaluate the efficacy of contraction osteogenesis in reducing bone length.
Main Methods:
- Nine sheep underwent bilateral mandibular osteotomy and fixation with modified distraction devices used for contraction.
- Control and experimental groups were analyzed at 1 and 3 months post-procedure.
- Bone regeneration and structural changes were assessed using radiodensitometry and microscopy.
Main Results:
- Mandibles were shortened by an average of 5.5 mm.
- Histological analysis revealed initial fibrous pseudoarthrosis and hyaline cartilage formation, which remodeled into normal bone by 3 months.
- Exaggerated bone formation was observed around the osteotomized cortical bone.
Conclusions:
- Contraction osteogenesis is a viable method for achieving bone shortening.
- The study provides evidence for the potential application of this technique in clinical settings for mandibular reconstruction.
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