Distraction Osteogenesis: A Method to Improve Facial Balance in Asymmetric Patients

Versatility of uniplanar prearthoplastic distraction osteogenesis in the correction of post-ankylosis facial deformities-a report of five different cases

PURPOSE

Unilateral or bilateral ankylosis can lead to severe micrognathia and facial deformity that requires multiple, often, staged surgical corrections. To date, there is no ideal treatment modality that satisfactorily corrects the complex anatomy, restores the ramal height, and corrects the micrognathia and microgenia. Distraction osteogenesis has been acclaimed as a successful modality for the treatment of such deformities. It is a cost-effective approach with low morbidity and less relapse thus providing better functional and esthetic outcomes. It allows the surgeon to correct the deformity in various planes by using various devices by changing osteotomy designs and vectors, with simultaneous hard tissue and soft tissue reconstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Here, we present a series of five cases where different types of distraction osteogenesis were combined with various other procedures to correct post-ankylotic facial asymmetry. In one case, simultaneous maxillo-mandibular distraction [Molina's technique] was used.

RESULTS

All patients showed significant improvement in function and esthetics. Outcome assessment was made using clinical photographs and radiographs.

CONCLUSION

Pre-arthroplastic distraction osteogenesis is a versatile cost effective approach that can be customized for every patient based on their needs.