[Distraction osteogenesis in the treatment of severe midfacial hypoplasia].

PATIENTS: Between May 1998 and May 2002, 38 patients suffering from severe midfacial retrusion and atrophy were treated by way of midfacial distraction osteogenesis. Diagnoses included cleft lip and palate (32 patients) and one case of Crouzon's disease. Ages ranged from 6-65 years. A total of 28 patients presented a velopharyngeal flap and nine patients were almost or fully edentulous. Using an extraoral halo device, distraction was performed after a subtotal Le Fort-I/II/III or modified quadrangular osteotomy.

RESULTS

Distraction ranged from 9 to 31 mm (17 mm average). Following the primary operation, seven patients underwent a second intervention due to problems with the procedure or the device. Two patients needed a secondary Le Fort-I-osteotomy. With respect to velopharyngeal insufficiency, 21% showed a deterioration and 8% an improvement. Postoperatively, a decrease of 15-20% in the attained sagittal advancement was seen during the first 6 months. This was attributed to relapses and postoperative orthodontics. Thereafter skeletal stability was maintained.

CONCLUSION

Distraction osteogenesis of the midface can be the method of choice in severe midfacial retrusion. Due to the difficult patient situation and the technical intricacies a higher complication rate has to be accepted than for conventional dysgnathia operations.