Comparative evaluation of the mandibular distraction zone using ultrasonography and conventional radiography

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of ultrasonography (USG) for the evaluation of bone formation in the mandibular distraction wound and to compare this with radiographic evaluation, which is currently the standard modality. Twenty-two patients underwent mandibular distraction (30 sides) with a variety of distraction devices. The wounds were assessed with plain radiographs and USG at established time intervals. Estimates of bone formation using a semiquantitative bone fill score were made for radiographs and USG. USG bone fill scores were correlated with radiography scores. At week 4 the difference between the scores was statistically significant (P=0.01); at all other time points, USG and radiography scores were comparable. At week 4, USG scores were significantly higher than the corresponding radiography scores, indicating that USG is an earlier indicator of calcification in the distraction zone as compared to radiography. USG evaluation of the distraction osteogenesis (DO) zone has many inherent advantages over conventional methods. The results of this study indicate that USG is an accurate non-invasive technique that may prove to be useful in assessing the mandibular DO regenerate in patients.