Maxillofacial Defects and the Use of Growth Factors

The development and increase in knowledge of the benefits and applications of growth factors in craniofacial reconstruction adds a novel tool in the reconstructive surgeon's armamentarium. The use of growth factors varies according to presentation. Growth factors help to promote healing, angiogenesis, and formation of bone of improved quality and quantity. Growth factors used with stem cells and scaffolds provide a solution or alternative to discomfort created by donor autograft sites. The application and results of these growth factors are displayed in various examples of maxillofacial defects in this article, including reconstruction of a premaxillary cleft and of maxillary augmentation.