Design and establishment of animal model with strain-testing during mandible distraction osteogenesis

Aim: To design and assemble a kind of extension apparatus for stain-testing during mandible distraction osteogenesis, and establish an animal model with simply-operated strain-testing during mandible distraction osteogenesis. Methods: The extension apparatus for strain-testing during mandible distraction osteogenesis was self-designed and assembled, and the osteotomy was completed on the same position of 12 rabbits at the junction of mandibular angle and body. The jaw extension apparatus adhered with strain gauge was used to tract mandibles of rabbits. The encapsulation materials of urethanes and silastics were compared to find suitable encapsulation materials. The osteogenesis was observed after distraction with general and X-ray observation. Results: Distraction osteogenesis was carried out successfully on all the rabbits. The rabbits with silastics as the encapsulation material could transfer the strain signals successfully, while those with urethanes as the encapsulation material could not do it well. Conclusion: The rabbit with silastics as the encapsulation material is an ideal animal model with strain-testing during mandible distraction osteogenesis.