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Semin Plast Surg 1998; 11(2): 19-33
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1080250
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© 1998 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Current Concepts in the Biology of Distraction

Babak J. Mehrara, J. Kerwin Williams, Joseph G. McCarthy, Michael T. Longaker
  • B.J.M., Research Fellow, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, New York University Medical Center, New York, NY
  • J.K.W., Assistant Professor, University of Washington; Attending Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
  • J.G. McC., Lawrence D. Brill Professor and Director, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, New York University Medical Center, New York, NY
  • M.T.L., John Marquis Converse Professor of Plastic Surgery, Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, New York University Medical Center, New York, NY
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
19 June 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Distraction osteogenesis has been introduced into the treatment protocol for various craniofacial malformations. The technique (relatively new to craniofacial surgery) has seen wider application since its initial description, driven by both experience and technical advances in device design. Clinically, distraction techniques have improved in the area of device development; in particular, in the availability of internal or intraoral devices; and in the use of this technique for distraction of regions of the craniofacial skeleton other than the mandible (mid-face, cranial vault). Most recently, the study of the biological processes involved in the generation of new bone during distraction has elucidated the activity of various growth factors that may increase our understanding of the distraction process and further enhance the effectiveness of this technique.

Keywords

Distraction - osteogenesis - consolidation - osteotomy - mineralization

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