Dr. Schendel -
a pioneer in craniofacial treatment
Dr. Schendel has designed a number of innovative medical devices and holds six patents. Several of these devices have been in the field of distraction osteogenesis. Based on his training and research in facial growth and development, Dr. Schendel designed an internal mandibular distractor (lower jaw) that lengthens the mandible in a curvilinear manner that mimics the normal logarithmic growth of the mandible.
Prior to this innovation, all distractor devices allowed only straight movement of the bone which could not reproduce the normal shape of the mandible. Dr. Schendel’s device is made in different sizes and curves so that it may be used for both infants and adults. Research has shown this device to be well accepted by patients and to have excellent results in rebuilding small lower jaws and correcting the breathing problems associated with them.
Dr. Schendel also designed a distractor for the upper jaw, or maxilla, that is internal. Based on his knowledge of anatomy and understanding the limitations of existing external devices he felt a number of improvements could be made to these devices to improve both the results and comfort for the patient after surgery. Dr. Schndel’s maxillary device is called a Spectrum and is the only bilateral device that is does its work totally inside the mouth. Other, external devices require pins in the head and a large metal device that partly surrounds the head extending to the front of the nose. Studies have shown excellent results with Dr Schendels device during the last ten years.
Dr. Schendel is also a consultant to a number of medical companies and has worked on plating system design, implants and materials such as bone cements.
Schendel S, Linck DW. Mandibular distraction osteogenesis by sagittal split osteotomy and intraoral curvilinear distraction. J Craniofac Surg 2004; 15: 4
Scolozzi P, Linck DW, Schendel SA “ Computer simulation of curvilinear mandibular distraction: accuracy and predictability. “ Plas Reconstr Surg 2007; 120:7 1975-80
Looby JF, Schendel SA, Lorenz HP, Hopkins EM, Aizenbud D” Airway analysis with bilateral distraction distraction of theminfant mandible” J Craniofac Surg 2009; 20:5: 1341-6
Kahn D, Broujerdi, J, Schendel S , “ Internal Maxillary Distraction with a New Bimalar Device” J Oral Maxfac Surg. 2008 66:4; 675-683
Miller JJ, Kahn D, Lorenz HP, Schendel SA “ Infant Mandibular Distraction with an Internal Curved Device.” J Craniofac Surg 2007; 18 6: 1403-1407
