Evaluation of effect of single vector mandibular distraction for correction of postankylotic mandibular hypoplasia requiring multiplanar correction: A prospective case series

INTRODUCTION: Uniplanar devices have been criticized for being insufficient to correct complex mandibular deformities and associated problems of open bite and cross bite. The use of oblique vector to correct complex multiplanar deformities using uniplanar mandibular distraction devices is the uniqueness of the present case series. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present case series is to describe the successful use of uniplanar mandibular distraction devices for the correction of complex multiplanar deformities. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The technique of callous molding was employed to overcome any open bite. A total of 40 mandibular distractors in 20 patients (mean age 13 ± 2.67 years) were placed on the mandible for correction of the facial deformity associated with the lower jaw(mandible) in vertical, horizontal and/or sagittal plane, secondary to temporomandibular joint ankylosis. The distraction was done before and after the gap arthroplasty in 15 and 5 patients, respectively. A latency period of 3–5 days was applied, and distraction was performed at a rate of 1 mm/day with the rhythm of 0.5 mm twice daily. RESULTS: The significant lengthening was observed in both mandibular height (Ar Go) (50.40 ± 1.52 mm from 38.80 ± 4.38mm, P = 0.006) as well as in mandibular corpus length (Go Pg) (79.40 ± 2.28 from 58.80 ± 4.09, P = 0.001). Statistically significant changes in mandibular dimensions, facial proportions, and soft tissue profile were seen, which was assessed with the help of COGS analysis done on lateral cephalogram taken preoperatively and postoperatively. CONCLUSION: With intelligent vector planning and callus molding multiplanar complex deformities can be corrected by using semiburieduniplanar devices.