Distraction osteogenesis is a technique of bone lengthening developed by the late Dr. Ilizarov of Russia. It has been applied to the lower extremities with amazing success for the correction of non-unions following fractures as well as underdeveloped limbs. Dr. McCarthy and his colleagues at NYU have developed techniques of distracting various components of the craniofacial skeleton. These techniques hold considerable promise for reconstructive surgery, allowing the surgeon to make precise changes in the lenthening and shape of the new craniofacial bone. This volume is the first book of its kind, bringing together the pioneers of these revolutionary new techniques. An international group of experts present their clinical and laboratory experience with destraction of the cranial vault, orbit, midface and zygoma, and mandible, as well as the prinicples of distraction, biomechanics, and the physiology of bone healing and remodeling. Two hundred illustrations elucidate the techniques. This book is a must for all reconstructive plastic surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, and oral surgeons.

The principal aim of this book is to identify and distinguish the variations in misregulation of mandibular growth by presenting relevant cases, which forms the basis of the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures presented. The individual chapters deal with the terminology of jaw anomalies, the necessary diagnostic prerequisites, treatment planning, and the principal surgical procedures which are commonly used to correct these anomalies. Historical and technical details as well as possible complications and how to deal with them and possibly avoid them are included and information on advanced instrumentation is given.