A new system for multi-directional intraoral distraction - rationale and application to ten patients

So far, multi-axial movements were restricted to extra-oral devices while intraoral devices applied to humans were restricted to single-axis movements. It was therefore the aim of the present work, to develop and to test a new system for multi-directional intraoral distraction of the mandible, which combines minimal invasiveness with a flexible fixation and modular design. The new distracter was applied to 13 patients so far, of which 10 have finished treatment. The anterior mandibular movements achieved, were in the range of 6 to 17 mm. A satisfactory occlusion was obtained in all but one case. Problems in two cases proved the importance of a complete separation of the bony segments. It was concluded that a multi-axial intraoral distraction provides more control of the dentate segment for the direction of the mandibular movement can be changed during the distraction. This is of special importance if orthodontic precoordination has taken place. A modular design improves the flexibility of the application of the technique.