ABSTRACT
Distraction osteogenesis (DO) of the maxilla is a technique utilized to gradually lengthen the maxilla extensive distances. DO create new bone without the need for bone grafting and donor site morbidity. Maxillary DO has many significant differences from mandibular DO. There are a multitude of distraction devices including bone-borne, tooth-borne and intra-oral and extra-oral devices. It is important to have a sound understanding of the biologic principles of DO and maxillary osteotomies when applying distraction techniques. The operative technique is similar to the classic Le Fort I osteotomy with some important modifications. After establishing general anaesthesia and administering appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis, attention is directed to the maxillary vestibule where local anaesthetic 2% lidocaine 1/100,000 epinephrine is infiltrated in the planned area of incision. 3D vector adjustments can be made during maxillary distraction with selected multivector extra-oral DO devices.
