Devices & Techniques: Extraoral Distraction
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The evolution of extraoral mandibular distraction began with the use of mini orthopedic devices for small bone lengthening. The first external apparatus used for mandibular lengthening in clinical practice was the Hoffman Mini Lengthener. The device was initially designed for hand reconstruction and represented a mini version of the Hoffman Leg Lengthener. It consists of two double-pin fixation clamps secured to a telescopic rod that is activated by a screw mechanism. The device can be adapted to the anatomic shape and size of the mandible by rotation of one clamp and sliding the other clamp along the shaft of the telescopic distractor.

FIG. 3.1.1. Hoffman Mini Lengthener (Stryker Leibinger, Kalamazoo, MI, USA).

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