Background: Surgical treatment of syndromal craniofacial synostosis consists of combined neurosurgical and maxillofacial reconstructions of the neurocranium and midface. Patients often need several operations if they are to achieve a functionally and cosmetically good result. This is, in part, due to limitations in the amount of "acute" correction possible peroperatively with conventional surgical technique.
Material and methods: In recent years, a new method called distraction osteogenesis has been developed, by which the skeletal elements are gradually advanced. The method is based upon a process whereby the reparative callus formed between the surfaces of two bone segments is subjected to traction. This leads to new bone formation parallel to the vector of distraction.
Results: Distraction osteogenesis allows for greater mobilizations, hence the promise of fewer reoperations.
Interpretation: The method seems to be a valuable treatment modality in syndromal craniofacial synostosis, where major fronto-orbital, midface or maxillary reconstructions are often called for.