Distraction Osteogenesis(DO) is a method of generating new bone following a corticotomy or an osteotomy and gradual distraction.
The method is based on the tension-stress principle proposed by llizarov.
The gradual bone distraction creates mechanical stimulation which induces biological responses and consequently bone regeneration.
This is accomplished by a cascade of biological processes which may include differentiation of pluripotential cells, angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and bone mineralization.
In facial bones, the method was proved to be predictable in animal studies with the generation of new bone and was later used in clinical practice.
The use of DO in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) has increased enormously in the last two decades especially for severe bone deficiency such as:
Deficient maxilla or midface
Deficient hypoplastic mandible
Deficient alveolar bone prior to implants placement.