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Updated: May 19, 2026
07:11
Treatment of Facial Deformities using 3D Planning and Printing of Patient-Specific Implants
Published on: May 23, 2020
Complications of frontofacial advancement
David J Dunaway1, Johnathan A Britto, Christopher Abela
1Craniofacial Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1 3JH, UK. david.dunaway@gosh.nhs.uk
Summary
Frontofacial distraction offers benefits but carries significant risks. Careful consideration of potential complications is crucial when deciding on this craniofacial surgery.
Area of Science:
- Craniofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Plastic Surgery
- Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Frontofacial distraction is a surgical technique used to correct craniofacial abnormalities.
- While effective, it is associated with potential early and late complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the spectrum of early and late complications associated with frontofacial distraction.
- To provide data for informed surgical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of craniofacial surgery complications.
- Retrospective review of 10-year patient data from Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children.
Main Results:
- Complications are common, with reported mortality rates ranging from 0-4.5%, showing a declining trend.
- Significant blood loss ( >1 blood volume) occurred in 5.3-9.1% of monobloc osteotomy cases.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks (2-20%) and frontal bone flap necrosis (3-20%) requiring further intervention are notable complications.
Conclusions:
- Frontofacial distraction yields significant functional and aesthetic improvements.
- The procedure has a considerable complication rate that must be weighed against its benefits.
- Careful patient selection and risk-benefit analysis are essential for recommending frontofacial distraction surgery.
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