Maxillary segmental distraction in a patient with bilateral cleft lip and alveolus with subsequent tooth transplantation: a preliminary case report.

Segmental distraction osteogenesis in the maxillary alveolar process makes it possible to close alveolar clefts in patients with cleft lip and alveolus successfully. Dental spaces occurring in the lateral segment can subsequently be fully closed by transplanting teeth into this area. This new method of treatment is advantageous for patients with broad clefts and multiple missing teeth in the maxilla.