Mandibular Lengthening: Orthofix
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Jay M. Pensler, MD

Surgical Technique

The technique we employ for distraction osteogenesis of the hypoplastic mandible entails four phases: 1) performance of a corticotomy, 2) a period of distraction, 3) remodeling of the regenerate, followed by 4) stabilization.

Through an intraoral buccal sulcus incision, the buccal cortex of the mandible is exposed in a subperiosteal plane. Under direct vision, two bicortical pins are percutaneously inserted in the proximal and distal mandibular segments 8 mm and 12 mm from the proposed osteotomy site.

FIG. 6.1.6.1. An intraoral incision is utilized to gain exposure to the buccal cortex of the mandible. The dissection then proceeds in a subperiosteal plane.