Longitudinal cephalometric analysis after maxillary distraction osteogenesis

The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term dentoskeletal changes in patients who received distraction osteogenesis of the maxilla. Seventeen patients aged 12 to 31 years underwent rigid external distraction osteogenesis for treatment of maxillary hypoplasia. Cephalograms; were evaluated retrospectively regarding linear and angular measurements. Follow-up times ranged from I to 5 years. In two patients, there was no consolidation of the Le Fort I segment to the midface. After the 0- to 12-month period, the maxilla had a stable position in all patients. Nevertheless, there was further decrease of SNA and ANB and an increase of the facial concavity thereafter. Ongoing growth of the facial skeleton must be considered when distraction osteogenesis is chosen for the advancement of the maxilla in adolescents.