A novel method for planning the placement of intra-oral lengthening devices using a paralleling device is described and illustrated with a case report. Simple radiographic measurements and study models are all that is required to construct a simple acrylic splint with guides, which allows accurate positioning of the distractors at surgery. The construction of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) baffles to prevent trauma to the labial mucosa from the intra-oral link arms is a technique that enhances patient comfort during distraction of the mandible. The case report demonstrates the application of the surgical planning technique and the use of EVA baffles for a patient with an overjet of 21.5 mm.
SamchukovML, CopeJB, HarperRP, RossJDBiomechanical considerations of mandibular lengthening and widening by gradual distraction using a computer model. J Oral Maxillofac Surg1998; 56: 51–9.
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Stucki-McCormickSU, MizrahiRD, FoxRM, RomoTIII. Distraction osteogenesis of the mandible using a submerged intra-oral device: a report of three cases. J Oral Maxillofac Surg1999; 57: 192–8.
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MattickCR, ChadwickSM, MortonMEMandibular advancement using an intra-oral osteogenic distraction technique: a report of three clinical cases. J Orthod2001; 28: 105–14.
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McGurkM, SlabbertiHDV, AmisA, McDonaldF., A preliminary report of a case using an intra-oral distraction device. Br Dent J1997; 183: 63–6.
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TakashimaM, KitaiN, MoriY, MurakamiS, KreiborgS, TakadaKMandibular distraction osteogenesis using an intra-oral device and bite plate for a case of hemifacial microsomia. Cleft Palate Craniofac J2003; 40: 437–45.
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TroulisMJ, EverettP, SeldinEB, KikinisR, KabanLBDevelopment of a three-dimensional treatment planning system based on computed tomographic data. Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg2002; 31: 349–57.
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GatenoJ, AllenME, TeichgraeberJF, MessersmithMLAn in vitro study of the accuracy of a new protocol for planning distraction osteogenesis of the mandible. J Oral Maxillofac Surg2000; 58: 985–90; discussion 990–1.
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GatenoJ, TeichgraeberJF, AguilarEDistraction osteogenesis: a new surgical technique for use with the multi-planar mandibular distractor. Plast Reconstr Surg2000; 105: 883–8.
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CopeJB, HarperRPSignificant mandibular deficiency treated by osteodistraction: an alternative to traditional orthognathic surgery. World J Orthod2000; 1: 79–97
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JuengerTH, KlingmuellerV, HowaldtHPApplication of ultrasound in callus distraction of the hypoplastic mandible: an additional method for the follow-up. J Craniomaxillofac Surg1999; 27: 160–7.
