Distraction Osteogenesis Lake Charles LA

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a relatively new method of treatment for selected deformities and defects of the jaw and skull. Although it was first used in 1903, in the 1950’s the Russian orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Gabriel Ilizarov, slowly perfected the surgical and postoperative management of distraction osteogenesis treatment to correct deformities and repair defects in the arms and legs. His work went mostly unnoticed until he presented to the Western Medical Society in the mid-1960s.

Distraction osteogenesis was first used to treat defects of the oral and facial region in 1990. Since then, the surgical and technological advances made in the field of distraction osteogenesis have provided oral and maxillofacial surgeons with a safe and predictable method to treat selected deformities.

If you have questions about distraction osteogenesis, please call our office at Lake Charles Office Phone Number 337-478-0468 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Boudreaux or Dr. Fisher.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distraction Osteogenesis

What does the term distraction osteogenesis mean? Simply stated, distraction osteogenesis means the slow movement apart (distraction) of two bony segments in a manner such that new bone is allowed to grow and fill in the gap created by the separating bony segments.

Is the surgery for distraction osteogenesis more involved than “traditional surgery” for a similar procedure? No. Distraction osteogenesis surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis with most of the patients going home the same day of surgery. The surgical procedure itself is less invasive so there is usually less pain and swelling.

Will my insurance company cover the cost of osteogenesis surgical procedure? Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the osteogenesis surgical procedure provided that there is adequate and accurate documentation of the patient’s condition. Of course, individual benefits within the insurance company policy vary. After you are seen for your consultation at our office, we will assist you in determining whether or not your insurance company will cover a particular surgical procedure.

Is distraction osteogenesis painful? Since all distraction osteogenesis surgical procedures are done while the patient is under general anesthesia, pain during the surgical procedure is not an issue. Postoperatively, you will be supplied with appropriate analgesics (pain killers) to keep you comfortable, and antibiotics to fight off infection. Activation of the distraction device to slowly separate the bones may cause mild discomfort. In general, the slow movement of bony segments produces discomfort roughly similar to having braces tightened.

What are the benefits of distraction osteogenesis vs. traditional surgery for a similar condition? Distraction osteogenesis surgical procedures typically produce less pain and swelling than the traditional surgical procedure for a similar condition. Distraction osteogenesis eliminates the need for a second surgical site to harvest bone graft material. Lastly, distraction osteogenesis is associated with greater stability when used in major cases where significant movement of bony segments are involved.

What are the disadvantages of distraction osteogenesis? Distraction osteogenesis requires the patient to return to the surgeon’s office frequently during the initial two weeks after surgery. This is necessary because in this time frame the surgeon will need to closely monitor the patient for any infection and teach the patient how to activate the appliance. In some cases, a second minor office surgical procedure is necessary to remove the distraction appliance.

Can distraction osteogenesis be used instead of bone grafts to add bone to my jaws? Yes. Recent advances in technology have provided the oral and maxillofacial surgeon with a distraction device that can be used to slowly grow bone in selected areas of bone loss that has occurred in the upper and lower jaws. The newly formed bone can then serve as an excellent foundation for dental implants.

Does distraction osteogenesis leave scars on the face? No. The entire surgery is performed within the mouth and the distraction devices used by Drs. Boudreaux or Fisher remain inside the mouth. There are no facial surgical incisions made, therefore, no facial scars result.

Are there any age limitations for patients who can receive osteogenesis? No. Distraction osteogenesis works well on patients of all ages. In general, the younger the patient the shorter the distraction time and the faster the consolidation phase. Adults require slightly longer period of distraction and consolidation because the bone regenerative capabilities are slightly slower than those of adolescence or infants.

Your Mouth Deserves Comprehensive Care

Drs. Boudreaux and Fisher are experienced oral surgeons who can perform several procedures, including dental implant placement, wisdom teeth removal, and jaw surgery. Contact us to learn more!

Call us: 337-478-0468

Lake Charles Oral Surgery Specialists

5 out of 5 stars based on 421 Distraction Osteogenesis reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great place!! Was at peace for both procedures.

- Mia D

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

It was a very nice experience the only things I remember are walking to the back taking my jacket off and then getting back into my car

- Mason F

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

This is my second implant through thus office. Very satisfied .

- Ronald F

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everyone there from the receptionist to the dentist was amazing I highly recommend them to anyone

- Micah H

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Have had exactly...zero...post op issues bleeding stopped a couple hours after surgery Friday morning. took one regular-strength tylenol friday afternoon...that' been it woke up saturday morning.....zero discomfort woke up sunday morning...zero discomfort couldn't be more pleased. Thank you Dr. Boudreaux...You are the Man To See for any heavy lifting with teeth!!

- David G

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Awesome experience

- Joshua M

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The doctor called later in the day and checked on my daughter. He and his staff answered all of my questions.

- Amanda C

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The staff and the dr was great. Very friendly and didn’t have to wait very long to be seen.

- Vanessa T

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Exceptional service !

- Michael W

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Staff was amazing, Dr Boudreaux was absolutely amazing. 10/10 would go back again if I needed to

- Mackenzie K

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Boudreaux and his staff are the best very friendly and really care great atmosphere all the way before and after surgery I love this place.

- ken m

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The staff really helped me with my anxiety before the procedure. Will definitely be back if need be and I recommend them to anyone

- Emily D

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great care and experience… very friendly, knowledgeable and attentive.

- William J

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

They were all awesome

- Robert R H

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Boudreaux and his staff are great to work with. He explains exactly what needs to be done in terms you can understand. I am very happy I came. Love this place.

- ken m

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Truly 5 star

- Lowell K

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Always super professional and caring

- Demi C

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The anxiety you feel when having to go through a procedure such as an implant is understandable. Dr, Boudreaux and staff being on the other end brought such a relief and calm. I have to say I was sincerely at peace.. Six hours have past since my procedure, no pain. Appreciated Dr. Boudreaux’s call to check on me and confirming instructions of care around area of implant. I would definitely recommend Dr. Boudreaux and staff they are the best!!!!

- Diana F

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everything was wonderful

- Douglas P

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Best experience for implants and bone graft. Highly recommend if you need oral surgery. 🤗

- Deborah S

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