A custom mandibular distraction device for the rat.

In the last several years, the rat model has been used as a reliable means of studying distraction osteogenesis (DO). This model has several benefits, including lower cost, the availability of molecular reagents for the rat, and the ability to perform a large number of operations in a short time. We have recently developed an external device that is custom-made for the rat mandible and secured at the mandibular ramus.