Objective To review the research progress of the role of periosteum in distraction osteogenesis. Methods The related domestic and foreign literature about the role of periosteum in distraction osteogenesis in recent years was extensively reviewed, summarized, and the mechanism and influencing factors of periosteum during traction and osteogenesis were analyzed. Results The periosteum is rich in all kinds of cells (mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, etc.), microvessel and various growth factors, which are necessary for the formation of new bone. It can promote the formation of new bone in the process of traction osteogenesis significantly. Conclusion The periosteum plays an important role in the progress of distraction osteogenesis.