Bifocal distraction to regenerate segmental mandibular defects using a custom made device: a report of two cases

Mandibular reconstruction following tumor ablative surgery had been a challenge. It has gone through days of temporary stabilization with k-wire, stainless steel reconstruction plate to avascularized and vascularized bone grafts with varying degree of success and failure. Reconstruction with vascularized bone grafts, though most definitive, requires special expertise, expensive equipment, and long operative time. It also produces donor site morbidity and requires a significant learning curve. With the development of transport distraction techniques there has been a paradigm shift from "reconstructive" to "regenerative" surgery. The objective of this study was to identify the feasibility of an internal device for reconstruction of extensive mandibular defects.

This article is to highlight a process of attempted mandibular regeneration in two cases using an indigenously designed distractor device. In individuals with extensive post ablative mandibular defects who were unwilling to have a secondary surgical site or were medically unfit for a long reconstructive procedure, the distraction technique can be used to reconstruct the lost mandibular structures.

A satisfactory amount of regenerate was achieved using a bifocal distraction osteogenesis technique for extensive defects of the mandible. The custom made device which was used for this purpose was moderately satisfactory and requires further evaluation and refinement.