Maxillary advancement by distraction osteogenesis using osseointegrated implants.

The purpose of this study was to establish a new technique for distraction osteogenesis in the maxilla, using an osseointegrated implant and intraoral device. After extraction of the premolar and molar teeth, four titanium implants were installed in the maxillary alveolar bone. Three months later, the distraction device was connected to the abutments, and osteotomy in the medial portion of maxilla between the implants was performed. Distraction was carried out at the rate of 1 mm per day to obtain a 10-mm elongation, Morphological, radiographic and histological examinations showed that successful maxillary advancement was achieved. New bone was primarily formed by intramembranous ossification and partial endochondral ossification. Titanium implants placed for anchorage of the distraction device remained stable during the course of maxillary advancement. This technique can provide significant advancement of the maxilla with better stability. The treatment system can be applied in any kind of maxillary deformities which need to be corrected surgically by classic osteotomy without bone grafting.