Can distraction osteogenesis be done in adults?
distraction osteogenesis works well on patients of all ages.
What are mandibular distractors?
Mandibular distraction is a method used to increase the length of the jaw bone. It requires a surgical procedure to attach the distractors, one one each side of the jaw bone. The process of distraction occurs after surgery and usually takes between 10 and 14 days.
How long does mandibular distraction surgery take?
During surgery The surgery takes about two to three hours. An incision (cut) is made through the skin under the jaw line, and then the jaw bone is carefully separated so a distraction device can be attached to the bone. This happens on each side of the jaw.
What is mandibular osteotomy?
The operation is almost entirely carried out from the inside of your mouth to minimise visible scars on the skin of your face. A cut is made through the gum behind the back teeth to gain access to the jawbone. The lower jaw is then cut with a small saw to allow it to be broken in a controlled manner.
What are medical Distractors?
In traditional surgery, the doctor uses bone grafts to lengthen bones. In some cases, a bone is moved and held in its new position with metal plates and screws. In distraction osteogenesis, a surgeon attaches a device called a distractor to the cut bone. Sometimes the distractor is placed under the skin.
What is jaw surgery called?
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic (or-thog-NATH-ik) surgery, corrects irregularities of the jaw bones and realigns the jaws and teeth to improve the way they work. Making these corrections may also improve your facial appearance.
When is mandibular distraction used?
Mandibular distraction is usually performed in the first several weeks of life. An incision is made and the jaw bone is carefully separated to allow a distraction device to be attached to the bone, on both sides of the jaw. The device has two screws that are turned to further separate the bone after surgery.
How long is recovery after lower jaw surgery?
Initial jaw healing typically takes about six weeks after surgery, but complete healing can take up to 12 weeks. After initial jaw healing — at about six weeks — your orthodontist finishes aligning your teeth with braces. The entire orthodontic process, including surgery and braces, may take several years.
How long does distraction osteogenesis take?
The procedure involves making controlled cuts, or osteotomies, in the bone, and using a device to gradually separate, or “distract”, the bone fragments. The fragments are then held apart by the distraction device over a period of 1-3 months, during which new bone forms, a process called “osteogenesis”.