Treatment of pediatric maxillofacial fractures using distraction osteogenesis

Abstract

Objective To investigate the clinical outcome of distraction osteogenesis in the treatment of pediatric maxillofacial fractures. Methods From November 2017 to November 2018, 6 cases of maxillofacial fractures were treated, including 3 cases of maxillary fracture and 3 cases of mandibular fracture. All of them were associated with facial asymmetry of different severity, disordered occlusion and displacement of fracture segments. The distraction osteogenesis device was used to fix the fracture during the operation. The distraction was initiated after 1 day latency period, and proceeded at approximately 0.5 mm each time, twice a day, until the normal occlusal relationship was achieved. Distractor was maintained for 1 month after distraction, and then removed. The degree of fracture healing, the mouth opening and the occlusal status at the fracture site were evaluated during follow-up, and the corresponding curative effect was observed and evaluated. Results All fractures were healed well, without infection, dislocation, or pseudo-joint formation after 1 month. The distraction duration is 15-20 days and the distraction distance is 15-20 mm. At the end, the occlusal relationship was normal, and the mouth opening was not limited. The follow-up period was from 1 month to 1 year. The maxillofacial appearance of the children was normal, and the maxillofacial development was not significantly affected. Conclusions Distraction osteogenesis is an effective and controllable method for child maxillofacial fracture. It can be used as a supplement to the conventional treatment of maxillary and mandibular fracture in children. Key words: Osteogenesis, distraction; Maxillary bone; Mandible; Fracture; Child