Alveolar Distraction Osteogenesis in Wide Alveolar Cleft Patients

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Secondary alveolar cleft repair is commonly accepted for alveolar cleft patients, however, nowadays, controversy remains regarding the surgical technique, the timing of the surgery, and the donor site. Rehabilitation of the large alveolar clefts with autogenous graft or distraction osteogenesis is one of the most common treatment choices. The purpose of the report is to evaluate the surgical techniques for repairing the wide alveolar clefts. Cases Four patients with alveolar clefts were included in our case series. The width of the cleft was between 17 to 25 mm. All patients were treated with distraction osteogenesis. The segmental osteotomy was performed under general anesthesia. Distraction was started 5 days after surgery. All distractors were bone fixed but supported by a palatal arch for guiding the distraction. Dental cast models were used before the surgery. Pre and postoperative radiological examinations were performed through orthopantomogram and computed tomography (CT) scan. Results With distraction techniques, closure of the alveolar cleft was achieved. The desired movements with new bone formation were attained yet eventful in all cases. Conclusion The method of treatments described here is a prospect for treating extremely wide alveolar clefts. Further patients are needed to assess all effects, side effects, risks, and overall benefits of these techniques.