A case of skeletal lateral open bite treated by vertical distraction osteogenesis

This report presents a case of severe skeletal lateral open bite treated by vertical distraction osteogenesis using an unidirectional intraoral device. Rapid prototyping (RP)-model was analysed to determine the mandibular osteotomy line and select the appropriate placement of the distraction device. Segmental osteotomies were performed as planned on the RP-model. The maxilla was segmentally osteomized and fixed with a mini-plate, and mandibular segment activated by distractor following the simulation. The duration of the treatment can be anticipated precisely, since the therapeutical goal and the whole process can be predicted and tracked on the model with high accuracy. This case highlights a planning difficulty using RP-model, and illustrates a useful treatment strategy for severe skeletal lateral open bite.