Hemifacial Atrophy Correction by Maxillomandibular Distraction Osteogenesis in Atrophy Side

Objective: To investigate the effect of treating hemifacial atrophy and correcting oblique occlusion plane by simultaneous distraction osteogenesis of maxilla and mandibule in atrophy side. Method: Four patients(Male:3 Female:1) with hemifacial atrophy were involved. Clinical and X-ray examination showed there were sever atrophy of bone and soft tissues in one side of face, with seriously oblique occlusion plane. The distractor were embodied into atrophic maxilla and mandible respectively and distraction osteogenesis were performed simultaneously. The latissimus myofacial flaps were used to correct soft tissue defect and deformity 6-8months after distraction osteogenesis were finished. Result: The jaw bones and soft tissues were lengthened 20mm averagely in atrophic side and the deformities of both bony and soft tissue were improved evidently and a perfect occlusion relationship was established well. Following up ranged from 1 to 4 years, patients demonstrated symmetric faces without regenerated bones and soft tissue absorbed. Satisfactory facial contour and profile were achieved. Conclusion: Simultaneous distraction osteogenesis of maxilla and mandible in atrophic side is an effective method to lengthen atrophic jaws, correct the oblique occlusion plane and improve the result of soft tissue fillings.