Osteogenic distraction within the craniofacial complex.

Osteogenic distraction is a method of increasing bone length, and was developed by orthopaedic surgeons. It is now being used in the craniofacial region. This paper outlines some of the suggested uses: mandibular distraction can be used to correct hypoplasia and asymmetry in both children and adults; maxillary distraction can bring the midface forward, and holds potential for people with cleft lip and palate; augmentation of alveolar ridges and regeneration of mandibular tissue following tumour resection show considerable promise. The complex spatial dimensions of the craniofacial bones present considerable challenges for this developing technique.