Hybrid Distractor for Continuous Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis

Abstract

Distraction Osteogenesis (DO) is a reconstruction method for repairing bone deficiencies in oral and maxillofacial area. Manual DO techniques have shown the functionality of DO method for the bone tissue reconstruction. DO method can improve the treatment conditions, as well as the quality of the reconstructed bone, compared to conventional techniques. Recently, continuous DO devices have been proposed to enable automatic DO process while using a continuous force for moving the Bone Segment (BS). Animal studies and clinical trials have shown the successful application of continuous distractors in terms of improving the DO factors, including rate and rhythm. Continuous DO technique can shorten the treatment time and enhance the quality of the regenerated tissue. However, the developed continuous distractors yet to be used in Human applications. In this study, by combining motor-driven and hydraulic techniques, a hybrid distractor is proposed. The hybrid distractor is capable of generating a continuous distraction force while controlling the position of the BS in a linear vector with a high positioning accuracy. Results of modeling and experimental study revealed that the proposed hybrid distractor has met all required factors for enabling a continuous DO procedure in Human. The proposed distractor is capable of eliminating the drawbacks of exiting techniques in terms of generating and transferring a controlled distraction force to the BS. The wireless control, as well as the small size of the device, makes this device a suitable solution for use in reconstruction of bone defects in maxillofacial area in Human.

Bone reconstruction of extensive maxillomandibular defects in adults

“…Accordingly, a new bone will be formed parallel to the distractions' vectors. 222 Distraction osteogenesis is mainly used to correct congenital or acquired craniomaxillofacial deformities. The literature on the reconstruction of defects of the jaw mainly consists of cases or case series and small comparative studies, in which vertical gains of up to 15 mm together with progressive elongation of surrounding soft tissues were described.…”

“…Distraction osteogenesis was initially described for mandibular deficiencies but has also been used in cases of maxillary hypoplasia 218–220 . It consists of the phases osteotomy, latency, distraction, and consolidation 221 . During distraction osteogenesis, new bone formation occurs between the two segments, continuing until the callus tissue gradually distracts.…”