Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
3118444 American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics 2008 8 Pages PDF
Abstract

IntroductionDistraction osteogenesis has gained popularity because of the hypothesized concurrent soft-tissue expansion, which is believed to reduce postoperative relapse. Although many articles describe the immediate success of mandibular distraction, little research has been done on its long-term stability. Our goal was to examine the long-term craniofacial changes after distraction.MethodsFour hemifacial microsomic patients treated with unilateral mandibular distraction were recalled. Changes in maxillary width and height, occlusal height, ramus height, mandibular length, and chin position were quantified by using the posteroanterior and 45° lateral oblique cephalographs. Predistraction and postdistraction measurements were taken over a 5-year period. The data were analyzed by using paired t tests and ANOVA.ResultsMaxillary height, ramus height, mandibular length, and chin point deviation all experienced moderate improvement after distraction. Although the growth patterns between the control side and the treated side were comparable until 2 years after removal of the device, the normal side outgrew the affected side thereafter until 5 years after distraction.ConclusionsBecause of the greater inherent growth potential of the unaffected side, more overcorrection than originally believed is needed to offset the persistent asymmetry in growing hemifacial microsomia patients who undergo unilateral distraction osteogenesis.

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Health Sciences Medicine and Dentistry Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Medicine
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