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Distraction Osteogenesis FAQ
What does the term distraction osteogenesis mean?
Simply stated, distraction osteogenesis means the slow movement apart (distraction) of two bony segments in a manner such that new bone is allowed to fill in the gap created by the separating bony segments. There is a waiting period, then a distraction period, then a healing period.
Is the surgery for distraction osteogenesis more involved than "traditional surgery" for a similar procedure?
No. Distraction osteogenesis surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis with most of the patients going home the same day of surgery.
Will my insurance company cover the cost of osteogenesis surgical procedure?
Individual benefits within the insurance company policy vary. After you are seen for your consultation at our office, we will assist you in determining whether or not your insurance company will cover a particular surgical procedure.
Is distraction osteogenesis painful?
Since all distraction osteogenesis surgical procedures are done while the patient is under anesthesia, pain during the surgical procedure is not an issue. Postoperatively, you will be supplied with appropriate analgesics (pain killers) to keep you comfortable, and antibiotics to fight off infection. Activation of the distraction device to slowly separate the bones may cause some patients mild discomfort. In general, the slow movement of bony segments produces discomfort roughly analogous to having braces tightened.
What are the benefits of distraction osteogenesis versus traditional surgery for a similar condition?
Distraction can add length, width or height to bone when it is difficult to be accomplished with bone grafting. Distraction osteogenesis sometimes eliminates the need for bone grafts, and therefore, another surgical site. Distraction osteogenesis is associated with greater stability when used in major cases where significant movements of bony segments are involved. Distraction also slowly stretches the soft tissue envelope which provides blood supply to the site. This can be a key factor of success in some cases. The expansion/distraction of the soft tissue can also be important for large movements or cases with restrictive scarring.
What are the disadvantages of distraction osteogenesis?
Distraction osteogenesis requires the patient to return to the office during the initial two weeks after surgery. This is necessary because in this time frame Dr Reynolds will need to closely monitor the patient for any infection and teach the patient how to activate the appliance. Also, a second minor office surgical procedure is necessary to remove the distraction appliance.
Can distraction osteogenesis be used instead of bone grafts to add bone to my jaws?
Yes. A distraction device can be used to slowly grow bone in selected areas of bone loss that has occurred in the upper and lower jaws. The newly formed bone can then serve as an excellent foundation for dental implants.
Are there any age limitations for patients who can receive osteogenesis?
No. distraction osteogenesis works well on patients of all ages. In general, the younger the patient the shorter the distraction time and the faster the consolidation phase. Adults require slightly longer period of distraction and consolidation because the bone regenerative capabilities are slightly slower than those of adolescence or infants.