title: Reconstruction and rehabilitation of severe mandibular atrophy using distraction osteogenesis technique: a case report.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this article is to describe a rehabilitation technique for patients with severe anterior atrophy using a combination of distraction osteogenesis and implants to support fixed or removable prostheses.
  
  
  METHODS
  The surgical technique involves the use of an extraosseous distraction device followed by more than 14 mm of distraction of the mandibular symphysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The patient was successfully treated by the application of 4 implants in the region of the mandibular symphysis, stabilized by an Ackerman bar, and a removable prosthesis.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Osseous distraction techniques, when possible, are preferable to block bone grafting techniques because they present considerable advantages for patients and surgeons. The combination of distraction and implant placement can rehabilitate patients with severe defects.
authors.affiliation: Center for Maxillofacial Surgery, Pyramide Clinic, Zurich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Albino
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Triaca
authors.affiliation: Private Practice, Genoa, Italy.
authors.forename: Joseph
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Garibaldi
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Private Practice, Genoa, Italy. Electronic address: mattesimonetti@hotmail.it.
authors.forename: Matteo
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Simonetti
authors.affiliation: Department of Dentistry, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy; Private Practice, Genoa.
authors.forename: Paolo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Balbi
authors.affiliation: Department of Dentistry, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy; Private Practice, Genoa.
authors.forename: Nicola
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Laffi
authors.affiliation: Department of Dentistry, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy; Private Practice, Genoa.
authors.forename: Alberto
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Merlini
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008336:Mandibular Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D019857:Osteogenesis, Distraction; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic