title: Osteogenic distraction within the craniofacial complex.
abstract: Osteogenic distraction is a method of increasing bone length, and was developed by orthopaedic surgeons. It is now being used in the craniofacial region. This paper outlines some of the suggested uses: mandibular distraction can be used to correct hypoplasia and asymmetry in both children and adults; maxillary distraction can bring the midface forward, and holds potential for people with cleft lip and palate; augmentation of alveolar ridges and regeneration of mandibular tissue following tumour resection show considerable promise. The complex spatial dimensions of the craniofacial bones present considerable challenges for this developing technique.
authors.affiliation: Manchester University Dental Hospital and Burnley General Hospital.
authors.forename: C R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Mattick
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007569:Jaw Abnormalities / Q000601:surgery; D019186:Mandibular Advancement / Q000379:methods; D008437:Maxilla / Q000601:surgery; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures; D019857:Osteogenesis, Distraction