Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a relatively new method of treatment for selected deformities and defects of the oral and facial skeleton. It was first used in 1903. In the 1950s, the Russian orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Gabriel Ilizarov slowly perfected the surgical and postoperative management of distraction osteogenesis treatment to correct deformities and repair defects of the arms and legs. His work went mostly unnoticed until he presented to the Western Medical Society in the mid-1960s.

Distraction osteogenesis was initially used to treat defects of the oral and facial region in 1990. Since then, the surgical and technological advances made in the field of distraction osteogenesis have provided the oral and maxillofacial surgeons with a safe and predictable method to treat selected deformities of the oral and facial skeleton.

Dr. Kernizan or Dr. Nguyen use distraction osteogenesis to treat selected deformities and defects of the oral and facial skeleton. If you have questions about distraction osteogenesis, please call our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Fraziero or Dr. Spink.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distraction Osteogenesis

What does the term distraction osteogenesis mean? Simply stated, distraction osteogenesis means the slow movement apart (distraction) of two bony segments in a manner such that new bone is allowed to fill in the gap created by the separating bony segments.

Is the surgery for distraction osteogenesis more involved than “traditional surgery” for a similar procedure? No. Distraction osteogenesis surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis with most of the patients going home the same day of surgery. The surgical procedure itself is less invasive so there is usually less pain and swelling.

Will my insurance company cover the cost of osteogenesis surgical procedure? Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the osteogenesis surgical procedure provided that there is adequate and accurate documentation of the patient’s condition. Of course, individual benefits within the insurance company policy vary. After you are seen for your consultation at our office, we will assist you in determining whether or not your insurance company will cover a particular surgical procedure.

Is distraction osteogenesis painful? Since all distraction osteogenesis surgical procedures are done while the patient is under general anesthesia, pain during the surgical procedure is not an issue. Postoperatively, you will be supplied with appropriate analgesics (pain killers) to keep you comfortable, and antibiotics to fight off infection. Activation of the distraction device to slowly separate the bones may cause some patients mild discomfort. In general, the slow movement of bony segments produces discomfort roughly analogous to having braces tightened.

What are the benefits of distraction osteogenesis vs. traditional surgery for a similar condition? Distraction osteogenesis surgical procedures typically produce less pain and swelling than the traditional surgical procedure for a similar condition. Distraction osteogenesis eliminates the need for bone grafts, and therefore, another surgical site. Lastly, distraction osteogenesis is associated with greater stability when used in major cases where significant movement of bony segments are involved.

What are the disadvantages of distraction osteogenesis? Distraction osteogenesis requires the patient to return to the surgeon’s office frequently during the initial two weeks after surgery. This is necessary because in this time frame the surgeon will need to closely monitor the patient for any infection and teach the patient how to activate the appliance. In some cases, a second minor office surgical procedure is necessary to remove the distraction appliance.

Can distraction osteogenesis be used instead of bone grafts to add bone to my jaws? Yes. Recent advances in technology have provided the oral and maxillofacial surgeon with an easy to place and use distraction device that can be used to slowly grow bone in selected areas of bone loss that has occurred in the upper and lower jaws. The newly formed bone can then serve as an excellent foundation for dental implants.

Does distraction osteogenesis leave scars on the face? No. The entire surgery is performed within the mouth and the distraction devices used by Drs. Kernizan or Nguyen remain inside the mouth. There are no facial surgical incisions are made so no facial scars result.

Are there any age limitations for patients who can receive osteogenesis? No. distraction osteogenesis works well on patients of all ages. In general, the younger the patient the shorter the distraction time and the faster the consolidation phase. Adults require slightly longer period of distraction and consolidation because the bone regenerative capabilities are slightly slower than those of adolescence or infants.

Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery of Western Mass

5 out of 5 stars based on 12 Distraction Osteogenesis reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Had a tooth extraction and bone graft with Dr. Kernizan. Best dental experience I've had. All went well. His staff put you at ease. It was painless and was over in a few minutes. I would highly recommend.

- Richard W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Staff was exceptionally helpful! At every corner there was a new smile and a friendly face to help ease my dental anxiety. The doctors were very informative and answered all my questions with ease.

- Tina B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I am terrified of the dentist. Even the mention of one. Ugh. DMD Max Kernizan, Thank you for your patience and understanding. You are one of a kind!

- Priscilla P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr Max cared for a family members oral surgical needs. The care and compassion he had in a difficult situation truly warmed my heart. Thank you Dr Kernizian, you were amazing!!!

- Leenie B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Im so happy I had them. I had such a bad infection from a broken tooth and they took such amazing care of me.

- Kelly S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I find it difficult to accurately put into words how incredibly personable, helpful, genuine and knowledgeable this entire practice is. So often I have had experiences with medical professionals that make me feel like I don't know what I am talking about, and feel they are not listening to me or taking me seriously. One visit and because Dr. K and his assistant listened to me and gave me hope of feeling better, I walked out of that office the happiest I have felt in years!!! Thank you just does not express how grateful I am. I think Dr. K (sorry, about the abbreviations) is a leader in his field.

- Kimberly M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

All of the staff were very friendly and kind.Makes you feel like you are the only patient that is there.

- Richard D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Thank you for your attention and having consideration of our last review and my feelings, this time we experienced the same great service, Im greatly appreciated.

- Kethzie L

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Thank you for the excellent care I recently received for teeth extractions. The only pain involved was MY unnecessary anxiety and childhood imagination! (I grew up next to a dentist and could hear the drill wizzing away all the time - I can still hear it!). Wow, how things have changed.I had 7 teeth extracted, done in a hour, and NO PAIN!!!! Thank you....

- Paul M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I first saw Dr Spink in June of 2016. He has always been kind, caring and compassionate, especially when he had to tell me I had oral cancer. He clearly explained the surgery he and a plastic surgeon would be performing at the end of July. I have never doubted his expertise or his caring in treating me. I came through the surgery, which was performed at Baystate Medical Center, with flying colors. He had to remove a good part of my tongue and replace it with a radial forearm free flap.He also had to perform a neck dissection to make sure the cancer hadn't spread. I trust his good judgement and skill. I have already recommended him to two other people I know who are having oral problems. I am forever grateful to him and to the great staff of people who work at FCMS. They have taken great care of me!!

- Jackie R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Fraziero was very informative about the procedure. He explained what he was going to do before he did it. He was professional and caring. A couple members of the staff, Dr. Fraziero and I all chatted throughout the procedure. It was a very relaxing atmosphere. I will highly recommend him, and I will certainly be going back! Thank you all so much for a wonderful experience.

- Deborah W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

As I've said, I have been miserable for weeks. Another dentist was not able to help me so referred me to Dr. Fraziero. I couldn't be happier with my experience and would recommend him to anyone who will listen!!!

- Holly W

5 out of 5 stars on