The effect of a unilateral costochondral graft on the growth of the marmoset mandible.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the investigation was to examine growth of the mandible after costochondral grafting with special reference to the amount of cartilage included in the grafts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The material consisted of 5 growing and 3 adult marmoset monkeys, Callithrix jacchus, in which the condylar process was removed unilaterally and replaced with a costochondral graft (CCG) containing either a short or long cartilage end. Growing animals were followed for 15 months until they attained maturity; and adult animals were followed for 13 months. Measurements made on frontal radiographs performed bimonthly, and direct measurements made on dry mandibles and crania at the end of the experiment, were used to evaluate the growth of the mandible and glenoid fossa. RESULTS: Longitudinal cephalometric evaluation revealed a gradual deviation of the lower dental midline to the unoperated side in growing monkeys with a long cartilage transplant. In all other animals, virtually no midline deviation occurred. Measurements on dry mandibles showed that the length and ramus height were longer in growing animals with long cartilage transplants compared with those with short cartilage transplants. In adult animals, the amount of cartilage did not make any difference with regard to the mandibular measurements. Enlargement of the articulating head on the grafted side was recorded in all animals. A morphologic change in the glenoid fossa of growing monkeys with a long cartilage transplant was also noted. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this investigation indicate that depending on the amount of cartilage in a unilateral CCG, a tissue-separating force is generated in growing monkeys, capable of propelling the mandible to the unoperated side. This gradual overgrowth occurs during the entire growth period, indicating a strong hormonal and growth factor influence on the growth process. Jaw function may have an effect on the articulating surface of the CCG, seen as enlarged articulating head on the grafted side in all animals.