Maxillary distraction osteogenesis with the use of an external, adjustable, rigid distraction device (Rigid External Distraction (RED) System^®) A report on two children with cleft lip and palate

Abstract

Two children who had cleft lip and palate with severe maxillary hypoplasia were treated by maxillary distraction osteogenesis. They underwent a high Le Fort I osteotomy and maxillary advancement with distraction osteogenesis, performed with the use of an external, adjustable, rigid distraction device (Rigid External Distraction (RED) System^®). The skeletal and soft-tissue midface defects were improved. Their occlusion was also corrected. This report describes the surgical technique, application procedure, and preoperative and postoperative management for the RED System. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the system are discussed.