Anterior Mandibular Segmental Distraction Osteogenesis: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: Skeletal Angle Class I patients with a severe dental Class II malocclusion are characterized by an unfavourable anterior-posterior relationship between the anterior dentoalveolar area and the skeletal base. Orthodontic alignment posing various treatment difficulties and surgical correction with bilateral sagittal split osteotomy may result in a compromised facial profile. Hence, anterior mandibular segmental distraction osteogenesis has been proposed as an alternative treatment modality for solving facial esthetics, anterior tooth crowding and an unfavourable relationship between the anterior dentoalveolar area and the skeletal base in skeletal Angle Class I patients with a severe dental Class II malocclusion. Limited skeletal relapse with predictable soft tissue changes have been documented in long-term studies. Thus, anterior mandibular segmental distraction osteogenesis seems to be a valuable and predictable surgical method for correction of selected cases of skeletal Class I patients with a severe dental Class II malocclusion. CASE REPORT: The purpose of this case report is to present the treatment of a 57-year-old female with a skeletal Angle Class I relation and a severe dental Class II malocclusion. Anterior mandibular segmental distraction osteogenesis as well as discussing the current knowledge about this treatment modality. CONCLUSION: The present case report illustrates that establishment of a harmonious relationship between the maxillary and mandibular arch in patients with a skeletal Angle Class I relation and a severe dental Class II malocclusion using anterior mandibular segmental distraction osteogenesis seems to be a predictable and applicable surgical method for selected cases and General Dental Practitioners, orthodontics and maxillofacial surgeons must have knowledge of this treatment modality.