Experimental evaluation of acute molding of the regenerate in mandibular distraction osteogenesis in a rabbit model.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effect of acute regenerate molding (ARM) on bone healing in mandibular distraction osteogenesis (DO).

Study Design: Nine white New Zealand rabbits underwent unilateral mandibular lengthening via DO. Three groups were created: The first underwent 15° ARM, the second group underwent 30° ARM after the distraction period, and the third group served as control without molding. After 1 month of consolidation, all of the animals were killed and histomorphometric evaluation was performed.

Results: New bone formation was uneventful in all of the groups. In the ARM groups, the amounts of osteoblasts and newly formed bone areas were higher in compressed areas than in stretched ones (P < .05). The regenerates in the control group and stretched regenerate areas of the ARM groups were similar regarding new bone formation (P > .05).

Conclusion: Acute regenerate molding could be safely applied immediately after the distraction period to correct postdistraction deformities without compromising bone healing.