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Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis to Correct Jaw Asymmetries
Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery Center
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Mandibular distraction is an advanced surgical procedure performed to increase the length of the jaw bone. This treatment is recommended for children born with an abnormally small jaw bone, a condition called micrognathia. When the small jaw pushes the child’s tongue back into the throat, it can cause problems with breathing and eating. Distraction provides the required projection to the lower jaw or mandible by increasing its size. It is a feasible treatment option children as well as adults for various conditions related to the mandible. Also called distraction osteogenesis, the surgical process involves the gradual stretching of the existing bones for new bone formation. It can treat the following conditions
Temporo-mandibular joint ankylosis
Pierre Robin syndrome
Obstructive sleep apnea
Midface retrusion
Mandibular hypolasia
Goldenhar syndrome
Cranial synostosis
Mandibular retrognathia
Lower Jaw Distraction Procedure The plastic surgeon cuts the mandible or lower jaw bone on each side. A distraction device is placed which gradually separates the two bony ends. The new bone that forms fills the gap that is created. When the front jaw has acquired its correct position, the distraction procedure is complete. The plastic surgeon removes the distraction device only after the new bone gets fully formed. This ensures that the new jaw does not collapse. The lengthening of the lower jaw also helps avoid the need for tracheostomy in the newborns. Moreover, this procedure also helps infants who already have had tracheostomy as the distraction of the lower jaw helps in safe removal of the tracheostomy, which had already been placed for severe airway obstruction. In most cases, the jaw conjoins quickly and efficiently. This is a one-time procedure, but for those children suffering from facial clefting syndromes or Treacher Collins syndrome, distraction procedure will need to be repeated as the jaws may not grow fully. The benefits of the surgical repositioning of the jaw are as follows
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Improves facial symmetry by matching the upper and lower teeth
Addresses medical conditions such as midface retrusion, cranial obstructive sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux and hypertension
Improves level of oxygen in the blood
Improves breathing
Improves brain function, weight gain, behavior and academic performance
Improves the ability to eat
synostosis,
For the best results, choose a certified plastic surgeon skilled and experienced in craniofacial and reconstructive surgery. The surgeon will first perform a detailed evaluation to determine whether the child’s candidature for mandibular distraction. With personalized treatment and dedicated follow-ups, reliable plastic surgeons will strive to ensure optimal results and minimal side effects.
Contact Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 6400 Fannin, Suite 2290 Houston, TX- 77030