@article{article_1908557, title={DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS}, journal={Dental and Medical Journal - Review}, volume={8}, pages={144–163}, year={2026}, url={https://izlik.org/JA96BE64GZ}, author={Yılmaz, Hakkı and Yaşatır, Eser}, keywords={Kraniyofasiyal distraksiyon, Kemik rejenerasyonu, Ortodontik tedavi, Kraniyofasiyal deformiteler}, abstract={Abstract Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a biological process that enables the formation of new bone between gradually separated bone segments under controlled mechanical tension. Initially developed for the lengthening of long bones, the technique gained widespread clinical relevance in cranio-maxillofacial surgery following its successful application in mandibular deficiencies. The principle of DO is based on the tension-stress effect described by Ilizarov, where gradual mechanical distraction stimulates osteogenesis as well as adaptive changes in surrounding soft tissues, a phenomenon known as distraction histogenesis. The biological process of distraction osteogenesis consists of four main stages: osteotomy, latent period, distraction period, and consolidation. During these phases, controlled mechanical forces promote angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and progressive bone regeneration within the distraction gap. Proper regulation of distraction rate and rhythm is essential for optimal bone formation, while excessive or insufficient mechanical stimulation may lead to complications such as ischemia, fibrous union, or premature consolidation. In cranio-maxillofacial practice, DO has become an important treatment modality for various skeletal deformities and deficiencies, including mandibular hypoplasia, craniosynostosis-related anomalies, craniofacial microsomia, and vertical alveolar bone deficiencies. Compared with conventional surgical approaches, distraction osteogenesis offers several advantages such as simultaneous expansion of bone and surrounding soft tissues, reduced need for bone grafting, and lower relapse rates. Despite these advantages, DO is associated with potential complications that may arise during intraoperative, distraction, or consolidation phases. These include neurosensory disturbances, device malfunction, infection, incomplete ossification, relapse, and temporomandibular joint complications. Therefore, careful patient selection, precise surgical planning, and appropriate postoperative management are critical for achieving predictable outcomes. Overall, distraction osteogenesis represents a highly effective and versatile technique for cranio-maxillofacial reconstruction and continues to play an essential role in modern orthodontic and surgical treatment strategies.}, number={2}