Mary Spano
Placing the RED Device, 2007

Medical Photograph; Nikon D200 digital camera

The Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, United States

IIn this photograph, the RED (rigid external distraction) device is used in the LeFort III mid-face advancement surgery procedure. This procedure is performed on patients with craniofacial deformities such as Crouzon, Apert, and Pfeiffer Syndromes, which effects the fusion of skull bones. The RED Device is an external halo-like metal frame that is attached to the skull, assisting with the gradual movement and growth of new bone to treat the facial abnormality. In this photograph, the surgeons are viewing a 3D rendering of a CAT scan performed on the patient just prior to surgery. This helps guide the surgeons in making the precise cuts in the bone (osteotomies) and the positioning of the device, which will hold the bones in place during the advancement process. With the advancement of the mid-face region there are often noticeable improvements in the airway function, eye protection, dental occlusion, and speech. Additionally, the appearance of the patient will often be improved.

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