Early Mandibular Distraction in Craniofacial Microsomia and Need for Orthognathic Correction at Skeletal Maturity

Background Controversy exists regarding the treatment of mandibular hypoplasia in craniofacial microsomia patients, notably the role of mandibular distraction osteogenesis. The authors compared the need for orthognathic surgery in skeletally mature craniofacial microsomia subjects who either did (study group) or did not (control group) undergo early mandibular distraction osteogenesis. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of all craniofacial microsomia patients evaluated between January of 1993 and March of 2017. This study included patients with a Kaban-Pruzansky grade I to III mandible, and who were at least 14 years old at the time of the latest follow-up. Results Thirty-eight subjects met inclusion criteria: 17 who underwent mandibular distraction osteogenesis and 21 who did not (mean age, 18.95 ± 2.82 years versus 17.95 ± 2.14 years, respectively; p = 0.246). The degree of mandibular deformity was matched (distraction, 29.4 percent Kaban-Pruzansky grade IIb and 5.9 percent grade III; no distraction, 23.8 percent grade IIb and 9.5 percent grade III; p = 0.788). No significant difference was noted between the distraction and no-distraction cohorts with regard to need for orthognathic surgery [distraction, n = 10 (58.8 percent); no distraction, n = 8 (38.1 percent); p = 0.203]. Conclusions The results seem to suggest that there is no significant difference in orthognathic surgery rates at skeletal maturity between craniofacial microsomia subjects who underwent early mandibular distraction osteogenesis and those who did not. Subjects who undergo distraction may still ultimately require orthognathic surgery to correct facial asymmetry. Additional studies are required to determine the optimal timing and technique of distraction, the importance of orthodontic management during and after distraction, and the early psychosocial benefits of improved facial symmetry. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, III.