ObjectiveTo review the application and research progress of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) in the treatment of craniofacial microsomia (CFM). MethodsRecent domestic and international literature on MDO for CFM was extensively reviewed, with systematic summarization of its indications, device development, key technical points of MDO, complication management, digital surgical applications, biological enhancement strategies, and controversies regarding early intervention. ResultsMDO stimulates new bone formation through the “tension-stress” principle, serving as an effective method to elongate the mandible in CFM patients and early improve airway and occlusal functions. Digital technology has enhanced its precision, while biological strategies show potential for optimizing osteogenesis. However, challenges such as postoperative relapse and the long-term efficacy of early intervention remain. Conclusion MDO is a core component of the sequential treatment for CFM. Future efforts should focus on intelligent technologies and high-quality clinical studies to optimize individualized treatment plans and improve long-term stability.
OBJECTIVE: To establish the animal models of mandibular distraction osteogenesis in rabbits and study its osteogenetic mechanism. METHODS: The right mandibles just anterior to the first molars of 12 rabbits were performed osteotomies, and the mandibles were positioned with distractors. The left mandibles were control group without operation. After 1 week, the distractors were stretched 0.9 mm every day for 10 days progressively. One day, 2, 4, 8 weeks after distraction, the mandibles were studied with gross measurement, X-ray, and histological examination. RESULTS: The right mandible were lengthened 8.3 mm on average without bone nonunion and deformity healing. It was observed that the gaps between the distracted bone edges were first occupied by fibrous tissue. Two weeks after distraction, it was found that the gaps were bridged by callus in X-ray, the new bone and the normal bone could not be differentiated clearly after 8 weeks. In histological sections, there were collagen bundles in early distraction, then those collagen bundles were calcificated and become trabeculaes. No Cartilage was found during distraction. CONCLUSION: It suggests that the rabbit mandible can be lengthened by distraction osteogenesis, and the new bone is formed by intramembranous ossification.
