Distraction osteogenesis for craniosynostosis

Abstract

Distraction osteogenesis for craniofacial deformity has numerous advantages: 1) bone grafting is unnecessary; 2) the procedure is less invasive, has short operating time, and less blood loss occurs than in conventional craniofacial procedures; 3) no intracranial dead space is created; 4) there is a good amount of blood flow to the bone segment; and 5) soft-tissue expansion occurs. The authors believe that distraction osteogenesis is a versatile and stable option for the treatment of patients with craniosynostosis.