Method and device for periosteum-based distraction osteogenesis

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an alternative method and device to traditional alveolar distraction osteogenesis, which typically necessitates bone destruction. This method employs a titanium rod with a screw head design connected to two peripheral protrusions. The lower protrusion anchors the device to the jawbone, while the upper protrusion supports a porous titanium plate beneath the periosteal tissue. By gradually rotating the screw head, the distance between the protrusions increases, promoting controlled, tension-free bone growth without necessitating bone destruction. This approach is advantageous where traditional methods are not feasible, such as bones affected by congenital defects, severe atrophy, or near-exposed nerve canals. The porous titanium plate acts as a scaffold, preventing periosteal tissue collapse and maintaining space for bone regeneration, while preserving the integrity of the periosteum. This innovation offers a more effective and less invasive solution for complex alveolar bone deficiencies.

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PERIOSTEUM-BASED DISTRACTIONOSTEOGENESISTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to distraction osteogenesis and, particularly, relates to methods and devices for expansion of bone and skeletal structures, such as the mandible.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Skeletal expansion to treat deformities, such as maxillofacial deformities, has traditionally been addressed through multiple bone grafts. Recently, distraction osteogenesis (DO) has emerged as a revolutionary technique that employs the body's natural bone regeneration ability to fill gaps in the bone. This method gradually expands the gap with a mechanical distractor, allowing new bone tissue to grow and reducing or eliminating the need for bone grafts. However, current distractors are often manually operated and require daily adjustments, which may not align with the patient's actual tissue regeneration capabilities. Conventional distractors typically permit only linear expansion, while optimal bone reconstruction, especially in facial bones, may require non-linear, e.g., curved, expansion techniques.

[0003] Distraction osteogenesis is a well-established surgical technique used to lengthen long bones, treat limb length discrepancies, limb deformities, and other related illnesses in both adults and children. For children, specific devices are necessary to preserve their bone growth capacity. Techniques typically involve the application of an external fixator followed by an osteotomy (a bone cut) and gradual distraction of the two bone segments. This controlled distraction generates new bone within the gap, which then consolidates. A well-known device is the Ilizarov apparatus, though its bulkiness can lead to social, psychological, and medical complications such as social isolation, anxiety, and pin-site infections. Manual adjustments required for distraction can also lead to human error.

[0004] Internal fixators for bone elongation, such as intramedullary nails that use magnetic remote controls, are also known. However, these can interfere with growth plates, affectingnormal physiological development in children. Additionally, they are expensive and prone to mechanical failure.

[0005] Osteodistraction or distraction osteogenesis involves slow, incremental distraction of fracture callus to stimulate and prolong active bone formation, providing a means to bridge large bony defects. This method is used for reconstructing skeletal deformities and lengthening bones. The process generally takes place through intramembranous ossification and involves four stages: initial formation of fibrous tissue, early bone formation, remodeling, and the eventual formation of compact cortical bone. Despite its effectiveness, challenges like delayed consolidation and infection remain.

[0006] Distraction osteogenesis devices are widely used in medical procedures for reconstructing malformed or under-developed bones, bone surgically removed for cancer, or bones lost to trauma. They gradually adjust the bone over a long period and can be applied to various bones including long bones of the limbs, head, face, and trunk. The process involves surgically separating the bone into pieces and gradually moving them apart to allow new bone formation. However, the need for external devices, which communicate through the skin, presents limitations such as frequent bacterial contamination, potential infections, difficulties with wound care, and patient discomfort. Additionally, the manual adjustments required by caregivers pose compliance concerns.

[0007] Given these challenges, this invention introduces a novel device for maxillofacial distraction osteogenesis that eliminates the need for initial bone destruction. This device utilizes a titanium rod with a screw head design connected to peripheral protrusions, anchoring the device to the jawbone while supporting a porous titanium plate beneath the periosteal tissue. By gradually turning the screw head, the device promotes controlled, tension-free bone growth without initial bone destruction. This innovation is particularly beneficial in cases where traditional methods are not feasible, such as in bones affected by congenital defects or severe atrophy.

[0008] The presented approach to distraction osteogenesis addresses many of the limitations of current methods, providing a more effective, less invasive solution for alveolar bone deficiencies and enhancing the potential for successful dental implant placement.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0010] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of the present disclosure, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. The proper scope of the present disclosure may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0011] According to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may include inserting a titanium mesh between a cortex of the alveolar bone and a periosteum of the alveolar bone. In an exemplary embodiment, the titanium mesh may include a plurality of holes. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include attaching a distractor to the alveolar bone.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the distractor may include a main rod, a fixing screw, and an adjusting rod. In an exemplary embodiment, a first end of the fixing screw may fixedly be attached to a bottom end of the main rod. In an exemplary embodiment, a first end of the adjusting rod may movably be attached to the main rod. In an exemplary embodiment, the first end of the adjusting rod may be configured to move along a main axis of the main rod.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, attaching the distractor to the alveolar bone may include inserting a second end of the fixing screw into the alveolar bone and inserting a second end of the adjusting rod into the titanium mesh. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include creating a gap between the cortex of the alveolar bone and the periosteum of the alveolar bone by separating the periosteum of the alveolar bone from the cortex of the alveolar bone comprising distancing the adjusting rod from the fixing screw.

[0014] The disclosed method and device present a revolutionary alternative to traditional alveolar distraction osteogenesis, which typically necessitates bone destruction. This method employs a titanium rod with a screw head design connected to two peripheral protrusions. The lower protrusion anchors the device to the jawbone, while the upper protrusion supports a porous titanium plate beneath the periosteal tissue. By gradually rotating the screw head, the distance between the protrusions increases, promoting controlled, tension-free bone growth without necessitating bone destruction.

[0015] This approach is particularly advantageous in scenarios where traditional methods are not feasible, such as in bones affected by congenital defects, severe atrophy, or near-exposednerve canals. The porous titanium plate acts as a scaffold, preventing periosteal tissue collapse and maintaining the space essential for bone regeneration, all while preserving the integrity of the periosteum. This innovation offers a more effective and less invasive solution for addressing complex alveolar bone deficiencies.

[0016] Alveolar bone loss presents a significant challenge in dental implantology, often resulting from periosteal disease, tooth loss, tumors, cysts, or congenital defects. Maintaining an adequate volume of alveolar bone is crucial for the successful placement and long-term stability of dental implants.

[0017] Alveolar distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a surgical procedure that involves the gradual elongation of bone following an osteotomy. This method leverages the body's natural healing processes, wherein new bone forms in the gap created by the distraction device, adhering to the tension-free principle established by Dr. Ilizarov. This principle emphasizes that slow, controlled bone movement promotes cellular differentiation, angiogenesis, and subsequent mineralization, resulting in new bone formation. Since its introduction by McCarthy and colleagues in 1992, DO has become a prevalent technique for bone regeneration in cases of insufficient alveolar bone.

[0018] Traditional DO devices are typically categorized into intraosseous, extraosseous, and implant-based distraction systems. Extraosseous devices are the most commonly used due to their ease of application and minimal invasiveness. However, they require substantial basal bone support, and their efficacy can be compromised by lateral forces, which may lead to bone resorption around the distraction device. Additionally, predicting the final location of the bone post-distraction can be challenging, complicating the subsequent placement of dental implants. The necessity of bone destruction during the procedure further limits the use of DO in certain cases, such as when the bone is severely atrophied or when the nerve canal is nearly exposed.

[0019] Our invention addresses these challenges by introducing an innovative approach that mimics the principles of DO while eliminating the need for bone destruction. This method employs a specialized titanium rod with a screw head design and two peripheral protrusions. The lower protrusion is designed to anchor the device to the jawbone, while the upper protrusion supports a porous titanium plate positioned beneath the periosteal tissue. As the screw head is gradually turned, the distance between the two protrusions increases in a controlled manner, promoting tension-free bone growth.

[0020] The key innovation here lies in the device's ability to facilitate bone growth without necessitating initial bone destruction. By preserving the existing bone structure, this method allows for bone regeneration in cases where traditional DO devices would be unsuitable.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a method for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates a section of an alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 3A illustrates a section of an alveolar bone in a scenario in which a titanium mesh is inserted between a cortex of an alveolar bone and a periosteum of the alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 3B illustrates a view of a titanium mesh, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 4A illustrates a section of an alveolar bone in a scenario in which a distractor is attached to the alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4B illustrates a view of an alveolar bone in a scenario in which a distractor is attached to alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a distractor, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of a main rod, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 7 illustrates a section of an alveolar bone in a scenario in which a distractor is attached to the alveolar bone and a gap is created between a cortex of the alveolar bone and a periosteum of the alveolar bone by separating the periosteum of the alveolar bone from thecortex of the alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 8 illustrates a section of an alveolar bone in a scenario in which the gap is fdled, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0032] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0033] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure . For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0034] Alveolar bone loss, resulting from factors such as periosteal disease, tooth loss, tumors, and cysts, presents formidable challenges for dental implant placement. Traditional methods like ridge preservation and ridge augmentation aim to maintain and restore bone volume, but they often fall short in cases of severe bone loss or complex anatomical conditions.

[0035] The present invention offers an innovative alternative to traditional alveolar distraction osteogenesis, which typically necessitates bone destruction. This method employs a titanium rod with a screw head design connected to two peripheral protrusions. The lower protrusion anchors the device to the jawbone, while the upper protrusion supports a porous titanium plate beneath the periosteal tissue. By gradually turning the screw head, the distance between theprotrusions increases, promoting controlled, tension-free bone growth without the need for bone destruction.

[0036] This approach is particularly advantageous in scenarios where traditional methods are not feasible, such as in bones affected by congenital defects, severe atrophy, or near-exposed nerve canals. The porous titanium plate acts as a scaffold, preventing periosteal tissue collapse and maintaining the space necessary for bone regeneration, all while preserving the integrity of the periosteum. This innovation offers a more effective and less invasive solution for addressing complex alveolar bone deficiencies.

[0037] Alveolar bone loss presents a significant challenge in dental implantology, often resulting from periosteal disease, tooth loss, tumors, cysts, or congenital defects. Maintaining an adequate volume of alveolar bone is crucial for the successful placement and long-term stability of dental implants.

[0038] Alveolar distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a surgical procedure that involves the gradual lengthening of bone following an osteotomy. This method leverages the body's natural healing processes, where new bone forms in the gap created by the distraction device, adhering to the tension-free principle established by Dr. Ilizarov. This principle emphasizes that slow, controlled bone movement promotes cellular differentiation, angiogenesis, and subsequent mineralization, resulting in new bone formation. Since its introduction by McCarthy and colleagues in 1992, DO has become a popular technique for bone regeneration in cases of insufficient alveolar bone.

[0039] Traditional DO devices are typically categorized into intraosseous, extraosseous, and implant-based distraction systems. Extraosseous devices are the most commonly used due to their ease of application and minimal invasiveness. However, they require thick basal bone support, and their efficacy can be compromised by lateral forces, which may lead to bone resorption around the distraction device. Additionally, predicting the final location of the bone after distraction can be challenging, complicating the subsequent placement of dental implants. The necessity of bone destruction during the procedure also limits the use of DO in certain cases, such as when the bone is severely atrophied or when the nerve canal is nearly exposed.

[0040] The present invention addresses these challenges by introducing an innovative approach that mimics the principles of DO but eliminates the need for bone destruction. This method employs a specialized titanium rod with a screw head design and two peripheral protrusions. The lower protrusion is designed to anchor the device to the jawbone, while theupper protrusion supports a porous titanium plate positioned beneath the periosteal tissue. As the screw head is gradually turned, the distance between the two protrusions increases in a controlled manner, promoting tension-free bone growth.

[0041] The key innovation here lies in the device's ability to facilitate bone growth without the need for initial bone destruction. By preserving the existing bone structure, this method allows for bone regeneration in cases where traditional DO devices would not be feasible.

[0042] The application of this invention follows a sequence of carefully controlled steps designed to maximize bone regeneration while minimizing invasiveness:

[0043] Initial Placement: The titanium rod is anchored to the j awbone via the lower protrusion, ensuring a stable connection. The upper protrusion is then used to position the porous titanium plate beneath the periosteal tissue.

[0044] Gradual Distraction: Over a latency period of several days following the initial placement, the screw head is gradually turned at a controlled rate. This gradual distraction increases the distance between the two protrusions, leading to the controlled separation of the porous titanium plate from the bone surface. This tension-free movement encourages the formation of new bone tissue in the gap created by the distraction.

[0045] Bone Regeneration and Consolidation: As the porous titanium plate is slowly elevated, the periosteal tissue is stretched, promoting the differentiation of stem cells, angiogenesis, and bone mineralization in the space between the bone and the plate. Over time, this leads to the formation of new, healthy bone. The final stage involves a consolidation period during which the newly formed bone matures and strengthens, ensuring its suitability for dental implant placement.

[0046] In conclusion, this invention represents a significant advancement in the field of alveolar bone regeneration. By eliminating the need for bone destruction and offering a controlled, predictable method for bone growth, it addresses many of the limitations associated with traditional DO techniques. Unlike previously patented distraction osteogenesis techniques, this invention simplifies the process and enhances its potential by improving the method to avoid bone destruction altogether. The use of a titanium rod with a screw mechanism and a porous titanium plate provides a versatile and effective solution for a wide range of clinical scenarios, particularly in cases of severe bone atrophy or complex anatomical conditions. This novel approach not only improves the feasibility of dental implant placement in challenging cases but also enhances patient outcomes by reducing surgical invasiveness andpromoting faster, more reliable bone regeneration. The simplification and refinement of the technique position this invention as a highly potent and innovative solution within the landscape of bone regeneration technologies.

[0047] Disclosed herein is a method for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone. FIG. 1 shows a method 100 for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, in an exemplary embodiment, method 100 may include a first step 101 of inserting a titanium mesh between a cortex of the alveolar bone and a periosteum of the alveolar bone. In an exemplary embodiment, method 100 may further include a second step 102 of attaching the distractor to the bone. In an exemplary embodiment, method 100 may further include a third step 103 of creating a gap between the cortex of the alveolar bone and the periosteum of the alveolar bonne by separating the periosteum of the alveolar bone from the cortex of the alveolar bone comprising distancing the adjusting rod from the fixing screw.

[0048] FIG. 2 shows a section of an alveolar bone 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, in order to implement first step 101 of method 100, a surgeon may cut gum 201 and a periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the term “surgeon” may specifically refer to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. In an exemplary embodiment, after cutting gum 201 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200, the surgeon may insert a titanium mesh between a cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200. FIG. 3A shows a section of alveolar bone 200 in a scenario in which a titanium mesh 300 is inserted between cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B shows a view of titanium mesh300, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3B, in an exemplary embodiment, titanium mesh 300 may include a plurality of holes301. In an exemplary embodiment, it may be understood that due to the high flexibility of titanium, titanium mesh 300 may be so flexible that a surgeon may be able to insert titanium mesh 300 between cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, in order to implement second step 102, the surgeon may attach a distractor to alveolar bone 200. FIG. 4A shows a section of alveolar bone 200 in a scenario in which a distractor 400 is attached to alveolar bone 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B shows a view of alveolar bone 200in a scenario in which a distractor 400 is attached to alveolar bone 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 5 shows a side view of distractor 400, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, in an exemplary embodiment, distractor 400 may include a main rod 501, a fixing screw 502, and an adjusting rod 503. FIG. 6 shows a view of main rod 501, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, in an exemplary embodiment, main rod 501 may include a longitudinal slot 601. In an exemplary embodiment, longitudinal slot 601 may be extended along a main longitudinal axis 602 of main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, a first end 521 of fixing screw 502 may be fixedly attached to a bottom end 511 of main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, a second end 522 of fixing screw 502 may include an externally threaded section. In an exemplary embodiment, the threaded section of fixing screw 502 may be configured to be screwed into alveolar bone 200.

[0051] As further shown in FIG. 5, in an exemplary embodiment, a first end 531 of adjusting rod 503 may be movably attached to main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 531 of adjusting rod 503 may be placed inside longitudinal slot 601 of main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 531 of adjusting rod 503 may be able to move linearly inside longitudinal slot 601 of main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, the surgeon may be able to move adjusting rod 503 up or down by moving first end 531 of adjusting rod 503 linearly inside longitudinal slot 601 of main rod 501.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, in order to attach distractor 400 to alveolar bone 200, the surgeon may insert second end 522 of fixing screw 502 into alveolar bone 200. Then, in an exemplary embodiment, the surgeon may insert a second end 532 of adjusting rod 503 into titanium mesh 300. In an exemplary embodiment, in order to implement third step 103, the surgeon may create a gap between cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200 by separating periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200 from cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200. In an exemplary embodiment, separating periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200 from cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 may include distancing adjusting rod 503 from fixing screw 502. In an exemplary embodiment, in order to implement third step 103, the surgeon may move adjusting rod 503 along main longitudinal axis 602 of main rod 501. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 531 of adjusting rod 503 may be engaged with longitudinal slot 601 in such a way that the surgeon can move up and down inside longitudinal slot 601 and along mainlongitudinal axis 602 by simply twisting a screw. FIG. 7 shows a section of alveolar bone 200 in a scenario in which a distractor 400 is attached to alveolar bone 200 and a gap 701 is created between cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200 and periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200 by separating periosteum 202 of alveolar bone 200 from cortex 203 of alveolar bone 200, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 shows a section of alveolar bone 200 in a scenario in which the gap is fdled, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] As discussed above, the disclosed method, as a form of ossification, ultimately produces native bone, making it highly valuable. The primary support and burden of ossification rest on the periosteal tissue and the bone cells within the spongy bone tissue. This technique not only generates sufficient soft tissue but also increases the final volume of both soft and hard tissues, similar to various expanders. This presents a distinct advantage over other bone regeneration methods, with the exception of distraction osteogenesis (DO). The fundamental difference between the disclosed method and DO lies in its reliance on separate soft tissue and periosteal tension, eliminating the need for sectional osteotomy and the separation of bone components.

[0054] In alignment with other bone reconstruction techniques, the disclosed method utilizes a scaffold and framework to ensure the proper provision of bone tissue over time. Anticipated to have a shorter waiting period, this approach does not necessitate the uptake of materials by macrophages, filling the space created by bone cells and tissue instead.

[0055] Initially, a crystal cutter and a periosteal flap are separated from the bone, followed by the placement of atitanium mesh on the bone. The specific screw of this method is then inserted through the mesh into the designated locations within the bone. The extended end of the screw remains outside the flap. The flap is repositioned, allowing the periosteum to heal.

[0056] Subsequently, by rotating the screw outside the tissue, a separating force is exerted on the periosteum due to tension. This causes the periosteum, along with the mesh and superior gingival tissues, to separate from the underlying bone that was previously prepared with a fine ball-shaped bur. A millimeter-sized space is created, immediately filled with periosteal and endosteal blood cells, followed by bone-forming cells. Before complete corticalization, this space is once again created by rotating the screw from the outside, allowing bone tissue to occupy this specifically allocated space.

[0057] One of the significant advantages of the disclosed method over distraction osteogenesis is the pliability of the periosteum, which can be maneuvered into various shapes and directions.This flexibility allows for simultaneous coverage of defects in both vertical and horizontal directions, depending on the anatomical area. The concept of the disclosed method stems from the periosteal reaction and its potential for bone formation, with the designed tool intended to stimulate this tissue reaction and bone formation.

[0058] As discussed, this invention may provide significant benefits including, but not limited to, no need for bone sectioning, simplicity compared to previous methods, orientation of bone formation in multiple directions, higher bone quality compared to previous methods, reduced time compared to other methods, no need for grafting materials, no need for a secondary surgical site, and simultaneous expansion of hard and soft tissues.

[0059] While the foregoing has described what may be considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0060] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0061] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents.

[0062] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0063] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective spaces of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely todistinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0064] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone, the method comprising: inserting a titanium mesh (300) between a cortex (203) of the alveolar bone (200) and a periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200), the titanium mesh (300) comprising a plurality of holes (301); attaching a distractor (400) to the alveolar bone (200), the distractor (400) comprising: a main rod (501), the main rod (501) comprising a longitudinal slot (601) extended along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501); a fixing screw (502), a first end (521) of the fixing screw (502) fixedly attached to a bottom end (511) of the main rod (501); and an adjusting rod (503), a first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) movably attached to the main rod (501), the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) configured to move along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501); wherein attaching the distractor (400) to the alveolar bone (200) comprises: inserting a second end (522) of the fixing screw (502) into the alveolar bone (200); inserting a second end (532) of the adjusting rod (503) into the titanium mesh (300); and creating a gap (701) between the cortex (203) of the alveolar bone (200) and the periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200) by separating the periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200) from the cortex (203) of the alveolar bone (200) comprising distancing the adjusting rod (503) from the fixing screw (502).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) is movably disposed inside the longitudinal slot (601) of the main rod (501), the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) configured to move inside the longitudinal slot (601) of the main rod(501) and along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501).

3. A device for distraction osteogenesis for an alveolar bone, the device comprising: a titanium mesh (300), the titanium mesh (300) configured to be inserted between a cortex (203) of the alveolar bone (200) and a periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200), the titanium mesh (300) comprising a plurality of holes (301); a distractor (400), the distractor (400) configured to be attached to the alveolar bone (200), the distractor (400) comprising: a main rod (501); a fixing screw (502), a first end (521) of the fixing screw (502) fixedly attached to a bottom end (511) of the main rod (501), a second end (522) of the fixing screw (502) configured to be inserted into the alveolar bone (200); and an adjusting rod (503), a first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) movably attached to the main rod (501), the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) configured to move along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501), a second end (532) of the adjusting rod (503) configured to be inserted into the titanium mesh (300); wherein the distractor (400) is configured to create a gap (701) between the cortex (203) of the alveolar bone (200) and the periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200) by separating the periosteum (202) of the alveolar bone (200) from the cortexthe fixing screw (502).

4. The device of claim 3, wherein: the main rod (501) comprises a longitudinal slot (601) extended along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501); and the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) is movably disposed inside the longitudinal slot (601) of the main rod (501), the first end (531) of the adjusting rod (503) configured to move inside the longitudinal slot (601) of the main rod (501) and along a main longitudinal axis (602) of the main rod (501).

Images