[Correlation between ultrasound and radiographic data for assessment of symphyseal bony callus maturation after distraction].
OBJECTIVE
To search for means of reducing ionizing radiation during treatment planning for transmandibular osteodistraction.


METHODS
Eleven patients (6 female, 5 male) underwent combined bimaxillary osteodistraction at a mean age of 18 Years. The following investigations were performed to determine symphyseal callus maturation: occlusal radiographs (O-RX) preoperatively, after the active phase of distraction (mean 27 days); ultrasound investigations (US) after the active and consolidation phase.


RESULTS
US showed calcification foci at the end of the active phase, when O-RX failed to do so. Both US and O-RX detected callus immaturity after 2 Months of consolidation in 1 patient. Both detected bridging ossification one Month later.


CONCLUSIONS
US can replace radiography in the diagnosis of callus maturation related to distractor removal.
Mommaerts
M
M
Service de chirurgie maxillo-faciale, département de chirurgie, GH St. Jan, Bruges (B). Maurice.Mommaerts@azbrugge.be
Steyaert
L
L
Polsbroek
R
R
Correia
P
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002146:Bony Callus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002648:Child; D002680:Chin / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D019857:Osteogenesis, Distraction; D011859:Radiography; D014463:Ultrasonography