Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis is a useful and well-established technique for bone and soft tissue formation in moderate to severe bone deficiency cases, both in the mandible, maxilla, and midface. DO demonstrates good results with long-term stability. The IDD are more comfortable to the patients and permit greater retention periods which contribute to long-term stability. In the future, better understanding of the biomolecular mechanisms that mediate DO may allow for the improvement of bone regeneration using different molecular mediators, growth factors, or stem cells. Further research might allow for shorter consolidation periods using different methods like shock wave therapy. Development of biodegradable devices may spare the need for a second surgery to remove the distraction devices. Development of new methods and devices for better control over the vector of elongation will improve clinical and functional results significantly. Three-dimensional imaging and custom devices designed specifically for each patient will allow for better prediction of bone and soft tissue formation.