What is Distraction Osteogenesis?
Distraction osteogenesis is an advanced surgical method used to gradually lengthen and reshape bone—most commonly in the jaw—by carefully separating bone segments and allowing new bone to form in the gap during the healing process. This technique is often chosen for patients who need significant bone lengthening but wish to avoid major bone grafting or complex reconstructive methods. It’s particularly beneficial in cases of congenital deformities, jaw deficiencies, trauma, or when preparing for orthodontic or implant treatment.
Performed in stages, distraction osteogenesis begins with a controlled surgical cut (osteotomy) to divide the bone. A precision device—a distractor—is then attached to the bone segments. Over time, the distractor is adjusted daily to gently bring the segments apart, stimulating new bone growth in between. As healing completes, the new bone hardens, resulting in a longer, stronger jawbone without the need for donor bone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Distraction Osteogenesis
What does the term distraction osteogenesis mean?
“Distraction” refers to the slow, controlled movement of two bone segments, while “osteogenesis” means new bone growth. Together, the term describes the process of slowly creating new bone by separating existing bones and allowing natural tissue to fill in the space.
Is the surgery for distraction osteogenesis more involved than “traditional surgery” for a similar procedure?
Yes—distraction requires multiple stages: surgical placement of the distractor, a latency period to begin healing, daily activation to lengthen the bone, and a consolidation phase for hardening. Traditional bone graft or orthognathic surgery is usually performed in a single operation. Though distraction involves a longer treatment timeframe, it often yields better long-term bone quality and function.
Will my insurance company cover the cost of osteogenesis surgical procedure?
Most medical insurance plans—and some dental benefit packages—cover distraction osteogenesis when it’s medically necessary, such as correcting congenital anomalies or post-traumatic deformities. Coverage typically includes the surgery, device, hospitalization, and professional fees. Our team reviews your insurance benefits and provides assistance with claims to help reduce your out-of-pocket responsibilities.
Is distraction osteogenesis painful?
While some discomfort and soreness are expected, especially during device activation, pain is typically mild to moderate and manageable with prescribed pain medication. The gradual lengthening process is designed to be comfortable, as adjustments are small (usually about 1 mm per day). Most patients return to normal functions during the distraction phase, experiencing only mild stiffness or soreness.
What are the benefits of distraction osteogenesis vs. traditional surgery for a similar condition?
- No bone grafting required—using your body’s natural healing ability
- Ability to lengthen soft tissues (gums, muscles) along with bone, reducing relapse risk
- Improved long-term stability due to gradual adaptation
- Better predictability and precision when using modern distractor systems
What are the disadvantages of distraction osteogenesis?
- Treatment timeframe is longer, often several weeks or months longer than traditional options
- Device requires patient diligence in care and adjustment
- Potential for infection around device pins—proper cleaning is essential
- Requires frequent follow-up appointments to monitor progress
Can distraction osteogenesis be used instead of bone grafts to add bone to my jaws?
In many cases, yes. When the primary goal is to lengthen or expand existing bone, distraction can offer a viable alternative to grafts. However, if bone width or volume in multiple dimensions is needed, grafting may still be recommended—or distraction may be used in combination with grafting.
Does distraction osteogenesis leave scars on the face?
Facial distractors are often attached via small incisions placed in natural crease lines to minimize visibility. Intraoral devices that don’t break the skin are also available. While any incision can result in minimal scarring, careful surgical placement and modern techniques significantly reduce visible marks.
Are there any age limitations for patients who can receive osteogenesis?
Distraction osteogenesis is typically performed in adolescents and adults. It’s generally not used in very young children unless necessary for serious congenital conditions. Bone must be mature enough to support the procedure, and patients should understand and commit to the process over time.