[Computerized tomography aspects of tibial distraction regeneration]

Computer tomography (CT) potentialities in examinations of patients over the course of distraction osteosynthesis and in assessment of the bone regenerate structure of different sites in various periods of its formation and 'maturation' were studied in 25 patients (22 men and 3 women aged 14 to 54, mean age 31.7) in periods from 24 days to 5 years. CT permitted a visual and densitometric assessment of the developing bone regenerate surrounded by metal constructions. The distraction osteogenesis involves the development of bone regenerate copying the anatomical shape and structure of the regenerated tubular bone at the site of its osteotomy. CT helps follow up all the periods of bone regenerate formation and maturation and permits the detection of deviations in this process, if any. This method permits analysis of the bone regenerate ossification time course, that is important for the assessment of the distraction rate and of the time of removing the external fixation apparatus.