Transsutural distraction osteogenesis versus osteotemy distraction osteogenesis

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Orthognathic surgery
• Pediatric plastic surgery

Background:

• Transsutural distraction osteogenesis (TSDO) is a minimally invasive technique for midfacial advancement.
• Limited data exists on the long-term stability of midfacial advancement achieved by TSDO.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the long-term outcomes of TSDO versus osteotomy distraction osteogenesis (ODO) for midfacial hypoplasia.
• To evaluate the stability and potential complications of both techniques.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 20 patients with midfacial hypoplasia treated with either TSDO or ODO.
• Long-term clinical and cephalometric analysis (4-10 years follow-up).
• Assessment of radiographic results, treatment duration, and surgical morbidity.

Main Results:

• TSDO group showed stable SNA angle and minimal retrusion (0.4 mm) over 4-8 years.
• ODO group exhibited significant retrusion (approx. 20% or 2.5 mm) in the long term.
• ODO patients had longer inpatient stays and one case of disharmonious advancement; TSDO patients had longer overall treatment and more outpatient visits.

Conclusions:

• TSDO is effective and aesthetically optimal for correcting midfacial hypoplasia in growing children.
• ODO is suitable for adult midface hypoplasia.
• Postoperative retrusion primarily occurs within the first 6 months, with no significant retrusion in TSDO-treated growing patients.