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Distraction osteogenesis is a procedure in maxillofacial surgery that corrects growth defects related to congenital facial malformations, for orthodontic, morphological or respiratory reasons.

It is based on an osteotomy (bone fracture) followed by elongation of the callus formed, making it possible to elongate the bone.

Progressive bone lengthening is performed by mechanical activation of the distractor implanted on either side of the fracture using a transcutaneous device.

Distraction therefore allows the two parts of the bone to be separated to the desired distance. This procedure is a source of discomfort (pain and stress of the patient and their parents), infection and significant scarring.

VIVODOGMA aims to develop a magnetically activated distractor: bone lengthening is achieved by rotating a screw that is connected to an internal magnet and associated with an external magnet, allowing the parent and hospital personnel to perform the distraction.

This way, no piece of the external activator pierces the skin: the pain and anxiety connected to activation are reduced, complications due to infection and scarring are eliminated and the device makes it possible to increase the frequency, and therefore the speed of the distraction.

The product developed by VIVODOGMA mainly targets osteogenesis distractors for craniomaxillofacial surgery (separation of the bone plates in the face and skull) and the activators when repairing deformities or in the case of reconstruction following a trauma, notably in children.